What is the functional difference between the US Senate and the House of Representatives?

Question

Our Congress is divided into the House of Representatives (House) and the Senate, but what makes them different?

Well for one, their purpose. The House represents the people, similar in fashion to the Greeks' direct democracy. And the Senate was modeled to function like the Roman Senate in the days of the Republic. These two bodies respond to their constituencies in different ways that may result in different legislation and priorities.

Secondly, the rules are very different. It is like speaking two different languages. Each chamber establishes its own rules and procedures for how to conduct business. For instance, the House requires a simple majority to pass legislation. However, the Senate largely requires a 60-vote threshold for passing legislation. There is one pathway called 'reconciliation' requiring only 50+1 votes in the Senate but I will hold that for another discussion.

Thirdly, the attitudes and partisanship has historically been more fierce in the House whereas the Senate was described by James Madison as the great "anchor", tethering the nation to its principles enshrined in the Constitution and being considered "the world's most deliberative body". Arguments can be made that due to overall increases in hyperpartisanship, the Senate has seen increased partisanship. That too can be left for another fun lesson- so much to discuss!

There are other ways the two chambers differ, and for a more in-depth dive, please reach out!

Answer 1

While the name Senate is the same as in ancient Rome

the Americans did follow the British bicameral legislative model, a House of Representatives like the British House of Commons, and a Senate like the British House of Lords, the "upper" superior chamber. Senators often run for president. House representatives never, although occasionally have a vice presidential candidate. The lower chambe is for the commoners or peasants. The Senate more like nobility or royalty. Although our Constitution abolishes all royalty or nobility.

The Senate confirms treaties or judicial nominations, not the House.

the House is elected every 2 years, for every member. by direct electiion of the people

the Senate originally was not directly elected by popular vote, but is now. It's members serve 6 years, not the 2 years of the House. Although the Senate elections are staggered so 1/3 of the Senate is up for re-election every 2 years.

The Vice President is President of the Senate, and casts a tie breaking vote. The Speaker, usually or effectively always is a member of the House itself, although not required. No tie breaker in the House.

the House Speaker is 3rd in presidential succession. IF the president and veep are impeached, resign, incapacitated, die or otherwise removed, the Speaker becomes president regardless of party.

In a presidential election, if no candidate has a majority, the House decides who wins, with each state's delegation getting an equal vote, choosing among the top 3 electoral vote getters.