Unit IV: Congress Unit IV: Congress The Beginning & Evolution of Congress Framer?s Intention Thought Congress would stay the most powerful Lacked precedent Philosophical/practical fears Legislative tyranny through majority party Mob rule by an out-of-control majority in the House Solution: a bicameral legislative branch keeps House in check with a responsible Senate (who are not popularly elected) Evolution Conflict in the distribution of power in Congress (Centralization vs. Decentralization in the House) Centralism increased efficiency and decisiveness at the cost of less freedom/power to individual members Strong central leadership with lots of authority over members Fewer opportunities to stall Minimal committee interference Less freedom to debate