What is the Difference Between Lower House and Upper House?

The main difference between the lower house and the upper house in a bicameral legislature lies in their powers, membership, and electoral processes. Here are the key differences:

Lower House:

• More numerous members, often elected directly by the population.
• Usually has more power or exerts significant political influence.
• Can override the upper house in some ways and vote a motion of no confidence against the government.
• Members may have longer terms and be elected in portions, for staggered terms.
• Typically has fewer members or seats than the lower house.

Upper House:

• Less numerous members, may be elected indirectly or not elected at all.
• Often has less power than the lower house, sometimes serving as an advisory or "house of review".
• Members' terms may be longer than in the lower house and may be for life.
• In some countries, the upper house cannot be dissolved at all, or can be dissolved only in more limited circumstances than the lower house.
• Members may be elected in portions, for staggered terms.

In a parliamentary system, the lower house often has more power and can initiate most kinds of legislation, especially those pertaining to supply/money and fiscal policy. In contrast, the upper house may have limited legislative matters and cannot initiate most kinds of legislation. In a presidential system, the lower house may have more control over the executive branch, while the upper house may have less direct control.

Comparative Table: Lower House vs Upper House

Here is a table comparing the differences between the Lower House (House of Representatives) and the Upper House (Senate):

Key differences include the number of members, distribution of members, term length, age requirement, citizenship, and residency. The Lower House has more members, representing smaller congressional districts, while the Upper House has fewer members, representing each state equally with two senators per state.