THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Alexander Hamilton's simple explanation of representative government --"Here, Sir, the people govern"-- is epitomized by the U.S. House of Representatives.

When Congress moved into the Capitol in November 1800, a population of about five million people was represented by 106 Members of the House of Representatives and 32 Senators. By 1845 there were more than 20 million people in 28 states and 226 House Members and 56 Senators. This growth required enlarging the Capitol to accommodate larger legislative chambers. In 1911 Congress stopped the expansion in House seats at 435 Members.

Members of the House of Representatives are elected for two year terms. The Speaker of the House, elected by the membership, presides or designates a Member to preside over sessions. The unique legislative powers of the House include the right to originate appropriations and tax bills, to impeach federal officials, and to elect the President when the electoral college is unable to do so.