How Congress Works

Plain-language guides to the processes, procedures, and institutions that shape federal legislation. No jargon, no spin.

Voting

What Is a Roll-Call Vote?

How the House and Senate record individual votes, why they matter for accountability, and how to look up how your representative voted.

 Process

How a Bill Becomes a Law

The step-by-step journey from introduction to presidential signature — including the committee stage where most bills die.

 Structure

What Are Congressional Committees?

Standing committees, select committees, subcommittees — how Congress divides its work and why committee assignments matter.