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THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH: THE U.S. CONGRESS

And so to our Congress, or branch legislative,

The first of all powers the Constitution does give.

As the writing of laws to duly order the nation

Belongs to those chosen to serve in this station.

And to sit in their chambers is to hear them debate

Proposals for laws, from the lousy to great.

They’re elected to office, so they need to respect

What matters to folks in their voting district.

And Congress does also either reject or support

Those named to be judges on the land’s highest court.

It must approve any treaty the President makes,

And declare we’re at war --- when that’s what it takes.

But wait, there’s still more for this body to do,

Such as print up our money and raise an army too.

And the power to tax, to much widespread dismay,

Belongs to this office, so, yes, we do have to pay!

And should our President some grievous action perform,

It’s up to the Congress to steer through the storm.

Should they discover his deed is a terrible breach

Of our laws and our trust --- well, they just might impeach!

Which means a trial is held for the nation to see

If a boot out of office is necessary.

And if two-thirds of the Senate vote to convict:

The President is fired, and shown the exit.

Indeed, the folks voted-in, to both lead and to serve,

On our Capital Hill should most keenly deserve

To wield such power, beneath the red, white and blue,

With a regard for the many, as well as the few.

Of course, if they’re rats, we’re not left without hope,

Since elections do serve as a leash and a rope,

Which can tie how they act to their promises made,

-- Or yank them back home if from good senses they’ve strayed!