Introduction to the UK and the US Government
The British Parliament has two chambers: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The House of Commons consists of 650 members elected in general elections (Heywood et al. 47). The House of Lords consists of about 800 members, who can be appointed by hereditary right, by merit, or by the Queen on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
The US Congress consists of two chambers: The House of Representatives and the Senate. The House of Representatives has 435 members elected for two years in each electoral district. The Senate has 100 members, two from each state, elected for a six-year term.
Rationale Behind the Choice of a Political Position
I would prefer to be a member of the House of Representatives in the US Congress (Wilson et al. 127). This choice is based on my political beliefs, interests, and understanding of how Congress works. It has a more wide-ranging authority and a more direct influence over the legislative process, foreign policy, and international relations. Elections to Congress occur every two years, allowing for more frequent expression of opinion and a change in the House of Representatives and Senate political power.
Comparison of the UK and US Executive and Legislative Power
International Influence
The US Congress has broader foreign policy powers than the British Parliament. The House of Representatives is also more representative and reflects the most diverse groups of the US population (Wilson et al. 58). In addition, the US adheres to the system of separation of powers, which allows for more effective control of the actions of the executive branch of government.
Legislative Power
The US Congress is more robust regarding institutional strength and impact. It has broad powers in the budget, foreign policy, and international relations, as well as greater autonomy and more vital control over the executive branch. In contrast, the British Parliament has less influence on the government and a more formal role in the legislative process (Heywood et al. 68).
Executive Power
Regarding leadership, the US President has broader powers than the British Prime Minister. The US President is the head of state and government, with legislative, executive, and judicial powers. The President also has control over the armies and national security. He can also use vetoes and executive orders to implement his political goals (Wilson et al. 87). While the British Prime Minister is the head of government, not the head of state, their powers are limited to the function of the government in the legislative process.
Works Cited
Heywood, Andrew, et al. Essentials of UK Politics and Government. Red Globe Press, 2021.
Wilson, James Q., et al. American Government: Institutions and Policies, Enhanced. Cengage Learning, 2020.