Senate
United States of America
Specifics and Responsibilities
*100 Members
*6 Year terms
*1/3 of members up for elections every 2 years
*Confirm Nominations
*Elected at Large
*Ratify Treaties
*If one dies or resigns state legislature may authorize the governor to appoint someone
Leadership Positions
President Pro Tempre: elected by Senate, leader in absence of Vice President
Majority: Steer party's bill through, comes from the party that has the most
Minority: Develops criticism of majority party's bill, comes from the party that has the least
Whips and Assistant Whips: Assist minority and majority leaders
Qualifications and Benefits
*Citizens of US for 9 years
*Legal residents of state that elects them
*Set own salaries
*Stationary, postal, medical clinic, and gymnasium benefits
*Large Allowances
*Income tax deductions
*$150,000 or more Retirement Pension
*Free from Arrest during Congress Sessions
*May refuse seat an elected member
*Punish its own members