What are the essential differences between the House and the Senate in the United States?

There are several differences between the House of Representatives and the United States Senate. One difference deals with representation and the representatives themselves. In the House of Representatives, each state has a different number of representatives since representation is based on the population of the state. Large states have more representatives than small states. In the Senate, representation is equal with each state having two representatives. For many years, our citizens elected only members of...

There are several differences between the House of Representatives and the United States Senate. One difference deals with representation and the representatives themselves. In the House of Representatives, each state has a different number of representatives since representation is based on the population of the state. Large states have more representatives than small states. In the Senate, representation is equal with each state having two representatives. For many years, our citizens elected only members of the House of Representatives. That changed with the 17th amendment that allowed the people to also elect the members of the Senate.

The members of the House of Representatives are elected for two-year terms. Thus, the entire House of Representatives is up for reelection every two years. The members of the Senate are elected for six-year terms. Thus, one-third of the Senate is elected every two years. You must be at least 25 years old to get elected in the House of Representatives. In the Senate, you must be at least 30 years old. There are 435 members in the House of Representatives and 100 members of the Senate.

The roles of the Senate and the House of Representatives have some differences. Any bill that deals with spending money must start in the House of Representatives. The House of Representatives determines if there is enough evidence to have an impeachment trial. The Senate conducts the trial and determines if the impeached person will stay in office or will leave office. The Senate also confirms the appointment of judges and ambassadors. The House of Representatives has no role in the confirmation process. Finally, the Senate must approve treaties the President makes with other countries.

While both the House of Representatives and the Senate make laws, there are some significant differences between the two bodies.