Lecture on the U.S. Senate

Historical Background

• Constitutional Convention of 1787
  • Deadlock over congressional representation.
  • Large states wanted representation by population; small states wanted equal representation.
  • The Great Compromise: House of Representatives by population, Senate with equal representation for each state.

Structure and Function of the U.S. Senate

• Representation

  • California has 36.5 million people, 53 representatives.
  • Wyoming has ~500,000 people, 1 representative.
  • Both have 2 senators each, emphasizing non-majoritarian status.

• Senate vs. House

  • Senate requires a supermajority for key decisions (e.g., overturning vetoes, ratifying treaties).
  • Each house can set its own rules; Senate evolved differently.
  • Senate requires 60 votes to cut off debate; House operates by simple majority.

• Unanimous Consent

  • Used for passing legislation without debate.
  • Empowers every senator to halt proceedings with an objection.

• Rules Committees

  • House rules committee controls debate; Senate's committee handles logistics (e.g., office assignments).

Political Dynamics

• Power Dynamics

  • Senate empowers minority party more than the House.
  • Requires bipartisan cooperation to pass major legislation.

• Partisan Polarization

  • Historically, both parties had internal ideological diversity.
  • Currently, parties are more internally cohesive, reducing middle-ground negotiation.

• Working Across the Aisle

  • Successful legislators find common issues across party lines (e.g., McCain-Feingold, Kennedy-Quayle collaborations).

Legislative Process

• Role of Advise and Consent

  • Senate involved in nominations and treaties (unique from the House).
  • Senate committees have significant influence over agencies and budget decisions.

• International Comparison

  • U.S. Senate committees have greater power to interrogate cabinet secretaries compared to other countries.

Influence and Changes

• Evolving Nature of the Senate

  • Changes in party dynamics reflect larger population shifts.
  • Future elections influence Senate's operating dynamics.

• Notable Figures and Literature

  • Lyndon Johnson's leadership as a case study in Senate management.
  • Recommended reading: Robert Caro’s "Master of the Senate" for an understanding of Senate history and operations.