网络报刊选读lesson 16 obama makes history

Lesson Sixteen Obama Makes History

Background information

Elections for President of the United States Some important figures: Barack Obama; John McCain; Hillary Clinton Some great events: The 1994 Republican Revolution ; Hurricane Katrina

U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C.

Builders laid the cornerstone for the United States Capitol in 1793, and the building has been the seat of the country’s Senate and the House of Representatives since 1800.

Legislative Branch OrganizationBicameral (two house) politic System

Congress: Senate (100) House of Representatives (435)

The U.S. Capitol: Senate

The U.S. Capitol: House of Representatives

The Senate

The House of Representatives

Structure of the two Parties in two Houses since 2008: 435 Representatives Senators 100

Representatives groupsthe Democratic Party the Republic Party

Senate groups

Senate Organization

Because of its relatively small size, the Senate has a simple organizational structure. The president pro tempore (temporary) controls the chamber, but inpidual members have substantial power to influence or block legislation.

Organizational Structure of the House

Executive BranchThe executive branch of the Government is responsible for enforcing the laws of the land. President: Leader of the country and Commander in Chief of the military. Vice President: President of the Senate and becomes President if the President is unable to serve. Departments: Department heads advise the President on policy issues and help execute those policies. Independent Agencies: Help execute policy or provide special services.

U.S. President &Vice President

The White House (front)

The White House (back)

Executive Branch of Government