What are the two houses of Congress?

The two houses of Congress are the Senate and the House of Representatives. This bicameral structure is established by the United States Constitution, which mandates that Congress be divided into these two distinct chambers to balance representation and legislative power.

The Senate consists of 100 members, two from each state, allowing for equal representation regardless of the state's population. This design aims to ensure that smaller states have a fair voice in federal legislation. On the other hand, the House of Representatives is made up of representatives based on each state's population, leading to a more proportional representation of the citizens' interests at the federal level.

This dual structure of Congress is intended to provide checks and balances within the legislative process, as both houses must approve a bill for it to become law. Each house also has unique powers and responsibilities, contributing to a complex system of governance that reflects the diverse interests of the American populace.