The legislative branch writes proposed laws, confirms or rejects presidential nominations for federal agencies, federal judges, and chief justices, and has the power to declare war.
Among other powers, the legislative branch makes all laws, declares war, regulates interstate and foreign commerce and controls taxing and spending policies.
The branch consists of (Senate and House of Representatives) and specialized agencies and offices that support Congress.
Representatives serve 2-year terms. There are a total of 435 members.
Each of the 50 states is equally represented by two senators who serve staggered terms of six years, for a total of 100 senators.