Articles Index
Filibuster and Cloture
Overview of Senate procedural Rule 22, filibuster and cloture .
Controversial Presidential Pardons - An Overview
The President derives the power of pardon from Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the president "power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment." A reprieve reduces the severity of a punishment, but the person remains "guilty." A pardon removes both punishment and guilt, which is why pardons are more likely to be controversial.
The Hatch Act
Passed in 1939, the Hatch Act restricts the political activity of executive branch employees of the federal government, District of Columbia government, and some state and local employees who work in connection with federally funded programs.
How to Contact your U.S. Congressman and Senators
How to get in touch with your U.S. congressman.
Closed Sessions of the House of Representatives
The House of Representatives may hold closed or secret sessions to discuss business confidentially. Since the War of 1812, the House has held six such session.
Milestones In Politics For American Women
As Nancy Pelosi assumes leadership of the US House of Representatives, let's look at other milestones for women in politics in the United States.
Congressional Intelligence Committees
History of the House and Senate Select Committees on Intelligence, established in 1976 and 1977. Reviews subsequent developments and tension between the legislative and executive branches of government.
Religion and The Presidency
There have been 42 men in the office of the Presidency. What have been their views on religion?
Public Holidays In The United States
What are the nationwide public holidays in the United States and how is a holiday born?
US Senate
Description and history of the United States Senate and the powers granted the Senate by the Constitution. The Senate and the House of Representatives jointly create the United States Congress.
Oaths of Office For Federal Officials
Details the oath of office for members of the three branches of the US government: executive, legislative, judiciary.
Continuity of Government Plans
The Continuity of Operations Plan - or Continuity of Government Plan - ensures that United States federal government operations can continue in the case of catastrophic events. It is an outgrowth of Cold War era legislation and executive order.
Regulating Food
The Food and Drug Administration develops standards of identity for food products. Here's how.
Salaries of US Federal Officials
Current salaries for members of the U.S. Congress as well as the White House and the Courts.
National Intelligence Estimate
The National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) is at the center of the debate on US action in Iraq. The 2002 NIE was used to justify the US invasion. Subsequent analyses suggest intelligence was flawed and contrary opinions given short shrift in the final report.
US Civil Rights Act - 1964
Text of the US Civil Rights Act - 1964
The Freedom of Information Act
Background and text of the Freedom of Information Act
US Supreme Court
An overview of the federal court system in the United States, with profiles of US Supreme Court Justices.
How To Amend the Constitution
How to amend the Constitution of the United States.
The Bill of Rights - US Constitution Amendments 1-10
History of the Bill of Rights; first 10 amendments to the US Constitution.
The Grand Jury in the United States
The Grand Jury in the United States: an historical overview with details on selection, reponsibilities, secrecy, subpoena power, and indictments.
What is a Recess Appointment?
Explanation and history of recess appointments in the United States.