How Long to Read The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction

By Donald A. Ritchie

How Long Does it Take to Read The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction?

It takes the average reader 3 hours and 1 minute to read The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction by Donald A. Ritchie

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

"Compromise is essential for accomplishing anything significant in the legislative arena, and yet recent political polarization has made compromise much harder to achieve. The U.S. Congress was created by a compromise at the Constitutional Convention, which established a House of Representatives apportioned by population, and a Senate in which all states would be equal. The House set rules to allow its majority to prevail, while Senate rules gave more muscle to the minority. Although Congress is divided between two such widely different bodies, no legislation can be enacted, or funds appropriated, without full agreement from both. The membership of Congress has grown increasingly diverse, with more women and minorities being elected. But it has also become more divided, with members of the party conferences voting together more than ninety percent of the time. After winning a seat, members must make choices between national needs and constituent approval. Compromises necessary to passing legislation may prove unpopular and cause primary challenges. Members devote much attention to constituent services and adopt the latest technology to communicate with voters. The news media also plays a key role in making or breaking congressional careers. The Congress examines the legislative process, from committee assignments to floor procedures, and conference that reconcile disagreements. The contrasting rules of the two bodies require different strategies and tactics. Members of the larger House band together by party, state delegation, or caucuses, to increase their impact. Being able to filibuster, senators exert more individual influence. Legislation is shaped largely in committees but also by the floor leaders. Some committees wield more power than others, particularly the Appropriations Committees, which control government spending In the constitutional system of checks and balances, the three branches share power. Legislation passed by Congress may be vetoed by the president or overturned by the Supreme Court. Presidents appeal to Congress to enact and fund their proposals. The Senate votes to confirm or reject the president's nominations-including members of the judiciary. Polarized politics have prompted the Senate majority to employ a "nuclear option" to prevent filibusters on nominations. While the presidency has grown more powerful, Congress retains the ability to investigate executive branch behavior and to impeach and remove presidents, judges, and other federal office holders. Over time, Congress has expanded in size, filling a vast Capitol complex to accommodate, members and their staffs, along with a myriad of constituents, lobbyists, reporters, and other visitors. As a symbol of American democracy, the Capitol has also become a target. Burned by British troops during the War of 1812, threatened on September 11, 2001, and invaded on January 6, 2021, the Capitol has steadily increased security while also seeking to remain on open public view. This new edition explains how Congress has evolved and adjusted to changes in American politics and society"--

How long is The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction?

The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction by Donald A. Ritchie is 177 pages long, and a total of 45,489 words.

This makes it 60% the length of the average book. It also has 56% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 4 hours and 8 minutes to read The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction aloud.

What Reading Level is The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction?

The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction is suitable for students ages 10 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction?

The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction by Donald A. Ritchie is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

To buy The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction by Donald A. Ritchie on Amazon click the button below.

Buy The U. S. Congress: a Very Short Introduction on Amazon