Legal Definitions - member of Congress

A Member of Congress (MC) is an individual who has been elected or appointed to serve in either the United States Senate or the House of Representatives. These individuals are responsible for representing their constituents, debating and voting on legislation, and overseeing the executive branch as part of the federal government's legislative branch.

• Example 1: Representative Maria Rodriguez, who was elected by voters in California's 15th congressional district, is currently drafting a bill aimed at improving broadband access in rural areas. As a directly elected official serving in the House of Representatives, Representative Rodriguez is a Member of Congress.

• Example 2: Senator John Chen, representing the state of Ohio, recently participated in a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to question a nominee for a federal judgeship. His role in this committee and his statewide election confirm his status as a Member of Congress serving in the Senate.

• Example 3: Following the sudden resignation of a U.S. Senator from Texas, the state's Governor appointed Sarah Lee to fill the vacant seat until a special election could be held. Even though she was not initially elected by popular vote, Sarah Lee immediately became a Member of Congress upon her appointment to the Senate, serving the remainder of the unexpired term.