Ace the Civic Literacy Challenge 2026 – Unlock Your Citizen Superpower!

The primary role of the U.S. Congress is to draft and pass legislation. This function is essential to the legislative process, as Congress is responsible for creating the laws that govern the nation. It fulfills this role through two specific chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members of Congress propose bills, which are then discussed, amended, and voted on within both chambers. If a bill receives majority approval, it is sent to the President for approval or veto.

The key focus is on the legislative function, which allows Congress to address national issues, allocate resources, and respond to the needs of the citizens they represent. This role is fundamental to the separation of powers, distinguishing Congress’s responsibilities from those of the executive branch, which enforces laws, and the judicial branch, which interprets them. Understanding this function is crucial for grasping the overall structure of the U.S. government and the legislative process.