Understanding Your Elected Officials

Botanical Advocacy & Education >> Understanding Your Elected Officials

A Congressman is a general term for any member of the U.S. Congress (House or Senate), while a Representative specifically serves in the House (based on population), and a Senator serves in the Senate (two per state), with key differences in term length (2 yrs for Reps, 6 for Senators), state representation, and specific powers. 

House of Representatives

As per the Constitution, the U.S. House of Representatives makes and passes federal laws. The House is is part of the federal government’s legislative branch. 

  • Role: Represents a specific congressional district within a state. 
  • Number: 435 total; number per state based on population, with a minimum of one. 
  • Term: 2 years; all seats up for election every two years. 
  • Key Powers: Initiates revenue bills, has more formal procedures due to size. 

US Senate

  • Role: Represents their entire state.
  • Number: 100 total (2 per state).
  • Term: 6 years; terms staggered so only about one-third are elected every two years.
  • Key Powers: Approves treaties, confirms presidential appointments, holds impeachment trials. 

Congressman/Congresswoman

  • Role: A general, informal term for any member of Congress (House or Senate). 
  • Usage: While technically correct for both, it often colloquially refers to a House member (Representative). 
  • Official Terms: The Constitution uses “Representative” and “Senator”. 

Key Distinctions

  • Representation: House represents districts (population-based); Senate represents states equally. 
  • Size & Debate: House is large (435), structured; Senate is smaller (100), with looser rules and more debate. 
  • Focus: Representatives often focus more on local constituent needs; Senators have broader, statewide, and national focus. 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Not sure of your congressional district or who your member is? Find your rep by matching your ZIP code to your congressional district, with links to your member’s website and contact page. CLICK HERE

SENATE

All questions and comments regarding public policy issues, legislation, or requests for personal assistance should be directed to the senators from your state. Please be aware that as a matter of professional courtesy, many senators will acknowledge, but not respond to, a message from another senator’s constituent.

Find/contact your Senator CLICK HERE

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