The article discusses Article One of the United States Constitution, which establishes the legislative branch of the federal government, known as the United States Congress. Key points include:
– **Composition of Congress**: Congress is a bicameral legislature consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate[3].
– **Powers of Congress**: Article One grants Congress various enumerated powers, such as laying and collecting taxes, providing for the common defense, regulating commerce, and declaring war. It also includes the power to make laws necessary and proper to carry out these powers[3].
– **Structure of the House and Senate**: The House of Representatives has members elected every two years, with seats apportioned based on state population. The Senate has two senators from each state, serving six-year terms. Originally, senators were elected by state legislatures, but the Seventeenth Amendment allows for direct election by the people[3].
– **Separation of Powers**: Article One’s Vesting Clause grants all federal legislative power to Congress, establishing the separation of powers among the three branches of government (legislative, executive, and judicial)[3].
– **Limitations on Power**: Section 9 of Article One places limits on the power of Congress, prohibiting practices like bills of attainder, and Section 10 limits the states from entering into alliances with foreign powers or impairing contracts[3].
Overall, Article One sets the foundation for the legislative branch, defining its structure and powers, and ensuring a balance of authority within the federal government.
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