After reading this chapter, you will be able to:

12.1 Describe the structure of Congress as established in the Constitution, including the differences between the House of Representatives and the Senate and the powers placed in each chamber

12.2 Identify the obstacles to winning a seat in Congress, the factors that influence an individual’s decision to run, and the resources and skills that successful candidates need

12.3 List the primary organizational features of Congress and understand the role of chamber leaders, political parties, committees, and congressional norms

12.4 Trace the steps of the legislative process and explain how that process can diverge from traditional “textbook” descriptions

12.5 Connect the issues surrounding the representation of women in Congress to the representation, or lack of it, of other individuals in America, whether based on race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual identity, or other traditionally excluded identities