Across
- 2. Duties of Congress that do not involve making laws, such as confirmation of appointments or investigations.
- 5. An agency that provides economic data and budget analysis to help Congress make fiscal decisions.
- 11. The agency responsible for producing and distributing official publications of the federal government.
- 13. The legal requirements, such as age and citizenship status, that a person must meet to serve in Congress.
- 14. The political party in each house with fewer members, which serves as the loyal opposition.
- 16. The lower house of Congress, where representation is based on state population.
- 18. A small group of members assigned to study and vet legislation in specific policy areas.
- 19. The political party in each house with the most members, which controls the legislative agenda.
- 22. Another name for the Necessary and Proper Clause, which allows Congress to stretch its powers to meet changing needs.
- 24. The research arm of Congress, serving as the national library of the United States.
- 25. An unrelated amendment added to a bill that is likely to pass, often used to secure funding for specific projects.
- 26. The process by which Congress monitors the executive branch and its agencies to ensure laws are carried out properly.
- 27. Individuals hired by members of Congress to assist with legislative research, constituent services, and office management.
Down
- 1. A tactic used in the Senate to delay a vote on a bill by speaking for an extended period.
- 3. Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but suggested by the Necessary and Proper Clause.
- 4. A temporary joint committee formed to resolve differences between House and Senate versions of the same bill.
- 6. A legislature consisting of two houses or chambers, specifically the House and the Senate.
- 7. The upper house of Congress, consisting of two representatives per state.
- 8. The section of the U.S. Constitution that establishes the legislative branch (Congress) and outlines its powers.
- 9. A formal expression of opinion or intention by a legislative body that does not necessarily become law.
- 10. The "congressional watchdog" that audits how the federal government spends taxpayer money.
- 12. The formal process by which the House of Representatives charges a civil officer with misconduct.
- 15. A procedure used in the Senate to end a filibuster and force a final vote.
- 17. Powers specifically granted to Congress by the Constitution, such as the power to tax or declare war.
- 20. The power of Congress to manage or control activities, particularly interstate commerce.
- 21. A proposed law presented to the legislature for consideration.
- 23. An organization that provides non-partisan support and information to Congress
