Which bodies are included in the legislative branch?

The legislative branch of government is primarily responsible for making laws and is composed of two key bodies: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Together, these two entities form what is known as the United States Congress.

The House of Representatives is made up of representatives who are elected directly by the people, reflecting the population of each state. The Senate, composed of two senators from each state, provides equal representation for each state, regardless of size or population. This bicameral structure allows for a comprehensive deliberation process in law-making, where both bodies must approve legislation before it can be passed on to the executive branch for approval.

Understanding the structure of the legislative branch is crucial for grasping how the U.S. government operates, especially in terms of checks and balances, as well as the interplay between federal and state laws.