In a special episode of The Poor Over Today, we're explaining the legislative branch of the U.S. government.

This is the first episode of our civics series.

For those who only vaguely remember Schoolhouse Rock, the U.S. government has three branches,

legislative, executive, and judicial.

Today, we're focusing on the legislative branch.

The legislative branch, also known as Congress, has two chambers, the Senate, the upper chamber,

and the House of Representatives, the lower chamber.

The Senate has 100 members, two per state, giving each state equal state, regardless of size.

The House has 435 representatives, which are divvied up based on each state's population every 10

years following a census. More people equal more representation. Senators represent entire states,

while House members represent smaller districts, theoretically making the House more closely tuned

to local concerns and current public opinion. Next up, the legislative job description.

What is the primary responsibility of the legislative branch?

To pass laws.

The House and Senate must work together to draft, debate, and pass laws on everything from

health care to highways.

But that's not all it does.

Congress controls the power of the purse, approving the federal

budget, and ideally making sure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, and has the sole authority

to declare war. Congress keeps the other branches in check through hearings, investigations,

and, if necessary, impeachments.

The Senate confirms presidential appointments like cabinet positions and federal judges,

...