What does United States Senate do?

The United States Senate is one of the two chambers of the U.S. Congress, established by the Constitution in 1789. It consists of 100 members, with two senators from each of the 50 states, ensuring equal representation regardless of population size. Senators serve staggered six-year terms, with elections for one-third of the seats occurring every two years. The Senate has significant legislative authority and plays a crucial role in the federal government. It confirms presidential appointments, approves treaties, and conducts impeachment trials. The Senate also oversees the executive branch and federal agencies, contributing to the system of checks and balances. It is organized into 16 standing committees that focus on specific policy areas, allowing for detailed consideration of legislation and nominations. The Senate operates from the north wing of the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C.