INSIDER INSIGHTS
10 Fascinating Facts About the U.S. Congress
Published on April 21, 2024
Image: Louis Velazquez
The United States Congress has held a central role in American governance, shaping laws and policies for over two hundred years. Yet, beyond its legislative functions, the time-honored institution harbors intriguing facts that are often overshadowed by the political debates.
Join us for a tour of 10 of the most surprising aspects of Capitol Hill, shedding light on the inner workings of America's legislative powerhouse.
Republican Origins
Image: Cesare Maccari, Public domain
Derived from the Latin word "congressus," meaning "a coming together," the original meaning of the term perfectly encapsulates the essence of legislative deliberation. Interestingly, the U.S. Congress also convenes at the Capitol, a name stemming from the Capitoline Hill in ancient Rome, a symbol of authority and governance in the ancient Republic.
Record Setters
Image: C-SPAN
A filibuster is a political strategy often used in congressional settings where a representative tries to stall or delay the voting of a proposed bill. A form of obstruction, it is technically allowed, but it can also be brought to an end with the help of other legal measures like cloture, as long as there are enough votes. In 1957, Senator Strom Thurmond of South Carolina embarked on a marathon filibuster lasting 24 hours and 18 minutes, setting the record for the longest individual speech in Senate history.
A Secret Subway
Image: US Capitol, Public domain
Beneath the bustling corridors of Capitol Hill lies an intricate network of subterranean passages, including an internal subway system. Although the actual cars are quite small, they remain an essential service for both lawmakers and staff, as these underground tunnels connect key buildings within the Capitol complex, ensuring efficient movement between legislative sessions, committee hearings, and office spaces.
Fun Traditions
Image: Carl Albert Research and Studies Center, Congressional Collection
Amidst the weighty deliberations and legislative duties, members of Congress occasionally set aside their political differences for a lighthearted tradition: the annual Congressional Baseball Game. Dating back to 1909, this sporting event pits Democratic and Republican representatives against each other in a friendly game of baseball, raising funds for charity and fostering camaraderie across party lines. The game is often attended by staff, congressional families, and sometimes even U.S. presidents.
When Elmo Testified
Image: Peabody Awards, CC BY 2.0
Hilariously, the lovable Sesame Street character Elmo was invited to testify before Congress in 2002, becoming the first non-human to ever testify on Capitol Hill (and the first Congressional witness to ever attempt to eat his microphone!). Though staff and representatives were amused with this presence, Elmo’s mission was a very serious one, as he was there to advocate for increased funding for music education in public schools.
Role of the Vice President
Image: Maureen Keating, Public domain
Beyond presiding over the Senate and casting tie-breaking votes, the Vice President plays a multifaceted role in the U.S. Congress. As the second-highest-ranking official in the executive branch, the Vice President often serves as a liaison between the White House and Capitol Hill, advocating for administration priorities and engaging in legislative negotiations. Additionally, the Vice President may also assume leadership roles in specific policy initiatives, reflecting their broader influence within the federal government.
Taking Care Of The Capitol
Image: US Capitol, Public domain
Established in 1793, the Architect of the Capitol is tasked with overseeing the maintenance, preservation, and renovation of the iconic buildings and grounds of Capitol Hill. The position is directly appointed by the President of the United States for a 10-year term. Although the role of Architect of the Capitol didn’t exist at the time, William Thornton is recognized as the "first architect," for his design of the U.S. Capitol in 1789.
First Meeting Place
Image: Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0
Before the construction of the Capitol building, the U.S. Congress convened in various locations, including Federal Hall in New York City and Congress Hall in Philadelphia. These historic sites served as the backdrop for key legislative debates and the drafting of foundational documents, such as the Bill of Rights.
A Famous Bean Soup
Image: Thomson200, CC0
A longstanding culinary tradition in the U.S. Senate, bean soup has been served in the Senate dining room for over a century. The soup consists mainly of navy beans, ham hocks, and onion, but in the past, it often included celery, garlic, and parsley. Legend has it that Senator Fred Dubois of Idaho insisted on the dish's inclusion on the menu, citing its affordability and nutritional value.
The Sweetest Seat
Image: Denny Müller
Who knew senators had a sweet tooth? A tradition that was started in 1965 by California senator George Murphy, the "candy desk" is exactly what you would expect: a drawer filled to the brim with assorted candy where other members of the Senate can go and grab something to chew on during lengthy debates and voting sessions. However, the candy desk is not a specific desk in the Senate Chamber but a sort of unofficial position a senator assumes, making him responsible for keeping the desk stocked.
