Parliamentary Procedure with Chris and Viktor

Latest Episodes:

Episode 3: Congress's Power to See Tax Returns and Other House Procedures Sep 13, 2019

Show notes

On this episode of Parliamentary Procedure we discuss Congress’ power to request and publicize any individual’s tax return. Then we explore the Congress’ right of privilege, which permits its members to refuse to comply with court orders. Next, we address the role of the Chaplain and the establishment clause issues the office creates. Then, we discuss the reasons why unpassed bills are killed at the end of each Congressional session. Finally, we explore the curious power of the House Clerk to preside over the House at the beginning of every session.

Episode 2: The House, its Officers, and its Leaders Aug 12, 2019

Show notes

In this episode we discuss the officers and other influential figures of the House of Representatives. In particular, we discuss the procedures by which the Speaker is elected. After the election of the Speaker we delve into the powers of the Speaker. Additionally, we discuss the other officers of the House such as the Clerk, Parliamentarian, Chaplain, and the Sergeant-at-Arms. Finally, we have a conversation about the chairs of House Committees and the power dynamics between the committee chairs and party leadership for each caucus.

Episode 1: Brief Historical Overview, Parliamentary Procedure Basics, and How Laws are passed in Congress Jul 14, 2019

Show notes

In this episode we discuss the essentials of Parliamentary Procedure, including the history of parliament, the core principles of orderly debate, and the basic structure of the U.S. Congress. We begin with a brief history of the mother of Parliaments, the English Parliament. From there, we discuss the core tenets of Parliamentary procedure, including the principle of orderly debate, and the committee structure. Finally, we outline the shape of the modern U.S. Congress and how legislative bills become laws.