Define: Congressional Power

Congressional power refers to the authority granted to the United States Congress, as outlined in the Constitution, to make laws, levy taxes, regulate commerce, declare war, and oversee the federal government’s operations.

No, Congress’s power is limited by the Constitution. It can only pass laws that fall within its enumerated powers, which include areas such as interstate commerce, taxation, and national defence.

Yes, under the Commerce Clause of the Constitution, Congress has the power to regulate activities that have a substantial effect on interstate commerce, even if those activities occur solely within one state.

Yes, Congress can override a presidential veto by obtaining a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Yes, Congress has the power to conduct investigations and issue subpoenas to private individuals or organisations in order to gather information for legislative purposes. However, these investigations must have a legitimate legislative purpose and cannot be used for personal or political gain.

Yes, Congress has the power to impeach and remove the President from office for “high crimes and misdemeanors.” However, impeachment requires a majority vote in the House of Representatives, and removal from office requires a two-thirds majority vote in the Senate.

Yes, Congress has the power to regulate campaign finance through legislation, such as setting limits on campaign contributions and requiring disclosure of campaign expenditures. However, these regulations must comply with the First Amendment’s protection of free speech.

Yes, under the Constitution, Congress has the power to declare war. However, in practice, the President often initiates military actions without a formal declaration of war, relying on the War Powers Resolution and other legal justifications.

Generally, Congress cannot pass retroactive laws that criminalize past conduct or increase penalties for past actions. However, there are some exceptions, such as when Congress is addressing a legitimate public interest or correcting a constitutional defect.

Yes, Congress has the power to regulate certain aspects of the internet, such as online privacy, intellectual property, and interstate commerce conducted through online platforms. However, any regulations must be within the scope of Congress’s enumerated powers and comply with constitutional limitations.