roles of commiitees in congress

Question 1

what are three roles of committees in congress?

Answer 1

help congress perform “advise and consent “ powers
first and most decisive stage of legislative process
perform a role in checks and balances as intended by “founding fathers”-scrutiny

Question 2

give a further explanation of committees helping congress perform advise and consent?

Answer 2

crucial in confirming presidential appointments. Congressional hearings are held in relevant committees where they evaluate nominees. Hearings often lead to a vote, followed by “rubber-stamp” decision of senate.

Question 3

Example of committees helping congress perform advise and consent?

Answer 3

Senate judiciary committee held hearings for Judge Neil Gorsuch, nominated by president Donald Trump to the SC

Question 4

Give a further explanation of committees being the first and most decisive part of the legislative process?

Answer 4

when a bill is introduced in congress, its allocated to the appropriate committee based on subject matter ( agricultural bills go to agricultural committee). Around 8k-10k bills are introduced, 90% rejected.. Committees have power to rewrite bills, making this stage crucial in determining which bill moves forward

Question 5

Give a further explanation of committees performing a role in checks and balances/ scrutiny?

Answer 5

committees help ensure the exec branch is held accountable through scrutiny.. Standing committees, such as House ways and means committee or the senate armed services committee, regularly scrutinise actions of the executive etc.

Question 6

Give an example of committees performing a role in checks and balances/ scrutiny?

Answer 6

Ways and means committee rejected Obamas 2016 budget proposal, contributing to threat of a government shutdown. This scrutiny reflects the Founding fathers intent to prevent the concentration of too much power in any one branch.