How do the two branches of the U.S. legislature differ in representation?
The two branches of the U.S. legislature, the Senate and the House of Representatives, differ in representation in the following ways:
1. The Senate has equal representation from each state, with two senators representing each state regardless of its population size. This means that all states, whether large or small, have an equal voice in the Senate. In contrast, the House of Representatives is based on proportional representation, with the number of representatives for each state determined by its population size.
2. Senators serve six-year terms, with one-third of the Senate up for election every two years. This staggered system ensures a level of continuity in the Senate. In contrast, members of the House of Representatives serve two-year terms, with all members up for election every two years.
3. The Senate is considered to be the upper house of Congress and has special powers such as confirming presidential appointments and ratifying treaties. The House of Representatives is considered the lower house of Congress and has the power to initiate revenue-raising bills.
Overall, the Senate and the House of Representatives differ in their representation by way of equal vs. proportional representation, term lengths, and specific powers and responsibilities.