The Non-Legislative Powers

Constitutional Amendments

Article V says that congress may propose amendments to the constitution by a 2/3 vote in each house.
Article V also provides that congress may call a national convention of delegates from each of the states
to propose an amendment. However, it must be requested by at least 2/3 of the state legislatures.

Electoral Duties

The house may be called to elect a president. If no candidate receives the majority of votes, the house is
to decide the issue voting by states among the top 3 contenders. The senate must also elect a vice
president in this election. In that situation the candidate with the majority of votes by individual
senators wins the election.

Impeachment

The Constitution provides that the president, vice-president, and all civil officials of the U.S. may be
removed from office on impeachment

The house has the sole power to impeach- to accuse and bring charges. The senate has the sole power
to judge in impeachment cases.

Impeachment only requires a majority vote in the house, while conviction requires a 2/3 votes in the
senate. The senate may also prohibit an individual from ever holding office again

Executive Powers
Appointments

All major appointments made by the president must be approved by the senate by a majority vote. Each
of the nominations are brough to the appropriate committee of the senate, hearings are held to decide
whether or not make favorable recommendations to the full senate. When the committee’s
recommendation reaches the floor of the senate it is considered in executive session.
Treaties

The president makes treaties “by and with the advice and consent of the senate… Provided 2/3 of the
senators present concur”

The senate may accept or reject a treaty as it stands, or it may decide to offer amendments,
reservations, or understandings to it

The Power to Investigate

Both houses may choose to investigate for one or a number or reasons.

1) Gather information necessary for the framing of a legislation

2) Oversee the operation of various agencies of the executive branch
3) Focus public attention on some particular matter
4) Expose questionable actions of a public official or a private person/group
5) Promote the particular interests of a member of congress