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Here are some interesting facts about the legislative branch that you may not have known!
Helpful definition
Constituency: the group of people a Representative or Senator represent.
 Legislative BillsAbout 9,000 bills are introduced in congress every two years. A bill is a proposed law, drafted in legal language. Anyone can draft a bill, but only a member of Congress can introduce a bill. Bills almost always get introduced in the House. |  Salary and BenefitsThe average Legislative Branch worker makes $63,000 per year. They also receive benefits, such as health and dental insurance, and pensions. |  Party Influence in CongressWhen voting on bills, many Representatives and Senators vote along party lines. This is why being the majority party is so crucial in each body of congress. Some view this strong party alliance as a problem, as the representative may choose his/her party over the well being of his/her constituency. |
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 The President and CongressThe President and Congress are often referred to as partners and protagonists. Presidents attempt to persuade Congress that what they want is also what Congress should want. Presidents have many resources to influence Congress, but it has become more difficult in recent years due to polarized politics and strong party alliances. |  Lobbyists and Interest GroupsAbout 35,000 lobbyists represent 12,000 organizations seeking to influence Congress. The bigger the issue, the more lobbyists. |  Member IdeologyPersonal ideology is the main reason a member of Congress votes the way he or she does. Party alliance and constituency opinion may also be a factor. |
 Caucuses in CongressA caucus is a group of members sharing some interest or characteristic. Caucuses are composed of members from both parties and houses, and they promote interests specific to their group and beliefs. Some examples of different caucuses are the Black Caucus, Women's Issue Caucus, Sunbelt Caucus, Bourbon Caucus, etc. |  Constituency OpinionConstituents expect their Congressperson to represent their interests. This oftentimes puts Congresspeople in difficult situations, as they have to find a balance between pleasing their constituents, voting based on their own values, and staying within party lines. |  Polarized PoliticsDifferences between Democrats and Republicans in Congress have grown considerably since 1980. This means there is less cooperation between parties in Congress, making it hard to pass bills. |
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