The duties of Congress primarily include making laws, representing the people, overseeing the executive branch, managing the federal budget, and declaring war. Congress enacts legislation, confirms presidential appointments (Senate), ratifies treaties (Senate), holds hearings and investigations, and has the power to impeach and remove federal officials. It also controls taxation and government spending, regulates commerce, establishes and maintains federal courts, and admits new states to the Union. Congress exercises broad investigative authority and ensures checks and balances between the branches of government. These responsibilities stem from the Constitution, particularly Article I, and include both enumerated powers and implied powers under the Necessary and Proper Clause.
Key Duties of Congress:
- Lawmaking: Passing bills and laws that govern the country.
- Representation: Acting on behalf of the citizens in their districts and states.
- Oversight: Monitoring and investigating executive branch activities.
- Budget Powers: Levying taxes, appropriating funds, and borrowing money.
- War Powers: Declaring war and funding the military.
- Confirmation and Treaty Ratification: Senate confirms presidential appointments and ratifies treaties.
- Impeachment: The House can impeach officials; the Senate conducts trials.
- Regulation and Establishment: Regulating commerce, establishing post offices, courts, and standards.
- Admitting States: Approving new states into the Union.
