Nancy Pelosi Announces Retirement from Congress: A Legendary Era Ends

## Overview The **U.S. House of Representatives** is the lower chamber of the United States Congress, which—alongside the Senate—comprises the nation’s legislative branch[1][2]. Established by Article I of the U.S. Constitution, its structure reflects the “Great Compromise,” balancing population-based representation (the House) with equal state representation (the Senate)[5][7]. The House currently consists of 435 voting members, apportioned among the 50 states based on population, plus six non-voting delegates representing Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories[1][4]. ## Functions and Powers The House plays a pivotal role in the federal government, with exclusive authority to initiate revenue (tax) bills, impeach federal officials, and elect the president in the event of an Electoral College tie[1][2][4]. It is central to the federal budget process, shaping and passing appropriations bills that fund government operations[3]. The House also holds investigative and oversight powers, scrutinizing the executive branch to ensure accountability[8]. All legislation must pass both the House and Senate in identical form before reaching the president’s desk[5]. ## History and Evolution Since its inception in 1789, the House has been directly elected by the people, with members serving two-year terms to ensure responsiveness to public opinion[4]. Initially, suffrage was limited, but expanded over time, especially after constitutional amendments and the civil rights movement[2]. The House’s structure—based on population—was designed to give populous states greater influence, while the Senate protects smaller states’ interests[5][7]. ## Leadership and Operations Leadership is dominated by a majority-rule system, with the Speaker of the House—elected by members and traditionally from the majority party—wielding significant influence over the legislative agenda and committee assignments[3][7]. The Speaker is second in the presidential line of succession[3].

## Overview of the Democratic Party The Democratic Party is the oldest continuing political party in the United States, with its roots tracing back to 1792 as the Democratic-Republican Party. Founded by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, it initially advocated for a decentralized government and states' rights, opposing a strong central authority[1][2]. Over time, the party evolved, becoming more progressive and supportive of federal government intervention in social and economic affairs. ## History The modern Democratic Party was formally established in 1828, with Andrew Jackson's presidential campaign marking a significant turning point. Jackson's successful campaign expanded voting rights to all white men, regardless of land ownership, and further reduced federal power[3][6]. The party became deeply divided during the Civil War era, with Northern Democrats supporting limited slavery expansion and Southern Democrats advocating for its perpetuation[3][5]. Post-Civil War, the party became a stronghold for Southern whites who opposed Reconstruction[3]. ## Key Achievements The Democratic Party has played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. history: - **Civil Rights**: The party supported key civil rights legislation, including the Voting Rights Act and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. - **Social Programs**: Democrats have been instrumental in establishing and expanding social programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. - **Economic Policies**: The party has often championed progressive economic policies, including labor rights and environmental protection. ## Current Status Today, the Democratic Party is a major force in U.S. politics, advocating for a strong federal government role in addressing social and economic issues. It emphasizes progressive policies on healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality[6]. ## Notable Aspects - **Symbolism**: The party's symbol, the donkey, originated from Andrew Jackson's opponents calling him a "jackass," which his supporters adopted as a mascot[6]. - **Diversity**: The party has become increasingly diverse, representing a wide range of socio-economic and