What is the difference between a senator and a representative in the United States?

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What is the difference between a senator and a representative in the United States?

The main difference between a senator and a representative in the United States is the level of government they serve in and the constituency they represent. Senators are members of the upper chamber of Congress, known as the Senate, while representatives are members of the lower chamber, known as the House of Representatives.

Senators are elected at the state level, with each state having two senators, regardless of its population size. This ensures equal representation for all states in the Senate. Senators serve six-year terms, and their responsibilities include proposing and voting on legislation, confirming presidential appointments, and ratifying treaties.

On the other hand, representatives are elected at the district level, with the number of representatives per state determined by its population. This means that more populous states have more representatives. Representatives serve two-year terms and are responsible for introducing and voting on bills, representing the interests of their constituents, and participating in committee work.

In summary, senators represent their entire state and serve in the upper chamber of Congress, while representatives represent specific districts within their state and serve in the lower chamber.