House of Representatives
in the USA
Specifics & Responsibilities
- 435 members
- 2 yr terms
- 90% of all representatives reelected
- If die, governor appoints temp replacement
- # based on census every 10 yrs
- Reapportionment - losing/gaining reps based on pop. change
- Redistricting - ea. rep assigned congressional district within state
- Exclusion - decide by majority vote not to seat elected member
- May expel legislator by 2/3 vote
- Has 4 nonvoting delegates from territories (DC, Guam, Am. Samoa & Virgin Islands)
Leadership Positions
- Speaker of the House - presiding officer of house & leader of majority party; great influence, appoints some committees, schedule bills for action; 3rd in line to presidency
- Majority leader - floor leader of their party; elected by majority party; plan program, steer bills, & keep tabs on committee chairpersons.
- Whips - assistant floor leaders
Qualifications
- Age: 25+ yrs
- US citizen for 7+ yrs
- Must be legal resident of state electing them
Benefits
- Set own salary (but does not begin till after next election)
- Free stationary
- Free medical clinic
- Free gym
- Large allowances to pay for staff, trips home, and communication
- Tax deductions
- Possible pensions of $150,000+/yr for life
- Freedom from arrest (except treason, felony & breach of piece)
- Cannot be sued for things said while on floor