House of Representatives
Joe Smoldt
Specifics
- 435 members and is the larger body of congress
- The seats are divided among states based on population
- Each state is entitled to one seat no matter the population
- 2 years terms
- Elected by district
Responsibilities
- Make laws
- Make key decisions about legislative work
- Study and shape bills
- Serving the interests of their constituents
Leadership Positions
Speaker of the House
- Most powerful
- Schedules bills for action
- Follows vice president in line for presidency
- Majority Leader
- Plan party's legislative program
- Steer important bills through the house
- Whips
- Watch how party members intend to vote on bills
- Persuade people to vote the way the party wants to
- Make sure party members are present to vote
Qualifications
- Must be 25 years old
- Citizens of the US for at least 7 years
- Be legal resident of the state that elects them
Benefits
- Stationery, postage for official business
- Medical clinic
- Gymnasium
- Allowance to pay for trips home, telephones, newsletters
- Income tax deduction to maintain two residence, one at home and one in DC