From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Mace Symbolism in the House Chamber The mace is the symbol of authority of the House of Representatives. The mace is 46 inches high and consists of 13 thin ebony rods representing the original 13 states of the union. The rods are bound … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Floor / Aisle / Candy Desk / Gallery “The Floor” describes the actual physical chambers of the House and the Senate, in the Capitol Building, in Washington, DC. These are the only places where legislation can pass. The aisle is the space between the minority … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Hopper Box attached to the House clerk’s desk where members place bills and resolutions to introduce them. Also called “bill hopper.” The term derives from a funnel-shaped storage bin filled from the top and emptied from the bottom, often used to house grain or coal. … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Whip, Majority Whip, Minority Whip In addition to the majority and minority party leaders, each party elects assistant leaders, or “Whips.” Assistants to the floor leaders who are also elected by their party conferences. The majority and minority whips (and their assistants) are responsible for … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Well Open space in front of the House chamber between members’ seats and the podium. Members in the House may speak from lecterns in the well. A censure resolution requires the member to go to the well of the House, where the presiding officer, normally … Read more