2012 US Senate Elections

The United States Senate is one of the two chambers of the United States Congress, the other being the House of Representatives. It is a legislative body that shares responsibility with the House of Representatives for making laws at the federal level. The…   Senate is composed of two senators from each state, regardless of population size, resulting in a total of 100 senators. This equal representation of states is designed to ensure that each state has a voice in the legislative process.<br /><br />The Senate has several unique roles not shared with the House of Representatives. It has the sole power to confirm those of the President's appointments that require consent, and to ratify treaties. There are also special classes of legislation that must originate in the Senate, such as the ratification of treaties and the trial of impeachments. The Senate also has the responsibility of conducting trials for federal officials accused of crimes against the nation, with the potential outcome of removal from office.<br /><br />The office of the Senate is led by the Vice President of the United States, who serves as the President of the Senate. In the Vice President's absence, the Senate's presiding officer is usually a President pro tempore, or temporary president, who is traditionally the longest-serving member from the majority party. The Senate also elects other officers, including a Secretary of the Senate, a Sergeant at Arms, and a Chaplain, each of whom carries out specific duties and responsibilities necessary for the functioning of the Senate.<br /><br />The Senate operates under its own set of rules and procedures, separate from the House of Representatives. It is known for its tradition of unlimited debate, which allows any senator to speak for as long as they wish on any topic they choose, unless a supermajority of senators vote to close the debate. This practice, known as the filibuster, has been a significant feature of the Senate's history and continues to shape its proceedings today.<br /><br />In summary, the United States Senate is a critical component of the U.S. legislative branch, with unique roles and responsibilities that distinguish it from the House of Representatives. Its office is led by the Vice President and other elected officers, and it operates under its own set of rules and&nbsp;procedures.Read more