Assembly v. Senate

By: Sydney Reynolds

Assembly versus Senate. While these two essential components of the legislature create and pass laws, a sharp contrast appears between the two. These differences are seen through the size and role that affect the general atmosphere. Even though the senate is the smaller of the two, this chamber often does the most. Due to the smaller nature of the senate, a more intimate debate can take place allowing for a formal and fast paced discussion. Gavin Mckay, a member of senate, describes the intense atmosphere while discussing bills. Senator Mckay goes on to say that while debating, mental agility is a necessity in the senate chamber as many questions are asked and in order to maintain a lead on opposing views, a quick mind is needed. Third year delegate, Anusha Ashanti, and first year delegate, Lexi Zirbel, express their anxious anticipation awaiting senate debate. Although Delegate Zirbel has not presented her bill in assembly yet, she states she is more nervous about her visit to senate due to the allotted time spent on a bill and the harsh nature that is associated with senate. Addressing the difference in the role between the chambers is complicated as both legislative bodies have the same job, but atmospheres within the chambers allow for separate outcomes. The Senate typically spends more time picking apart bills in a logistical way and immerse themselves into each possible outcome if the bill were to be signed into law. Assembly discussion evokes more emotion and creates a general understanding of presented bills as this chamber is a majority of younger delegates.

 In conclusion, the Senate and the Assembly both have the primary duty of drafting and passing laws, but how they operate is influenced by the differences in their composition, environment, and methods of debate. Because of its smaller size, the Senate encourages more personal, strategic discussions that call for quick thinking and consideration. The Assembly, on the other hand, frequently participates in more wide-ranging conversations because of its larger, younger membership. These opposing forces have an impact on the character and tempo of legislative proceedings as well as the results of the legislation that is passed. Ultimately, these two chambers are a necessary team that work together to pass and create safe and successful laws.