#77: CIVICS 101: The Legislative Branch
Q&A #77: May the Secretary of State or any other Cabinet officer appear on the floor of either House to answer questions?
Our American Government
Our American Government is a small book published by the House of Representatives for citizens and those who seek a greater understanding of the American interpretation of democracy. It follows a question-and-answer format and covers a broad range of topics dealing with the three branches of our Government, the electoral process, and the role of political parties.
The Savvy Citizen is reproducing the 169 questions-and-answers through a series of posts called Civics 101. Each post will contain the Q&A as well as some additional commentary to add historical context, fun facts, or anything we believe will add to our collective understanding of these topics.
Think of it as your adult Civics class but without the test!
Let’s keep at it.
SECTION: The Legislative Branch: The Congress
Congressional Rules and Procedures
Q&A #77: May the Secretary of State or any other Cabinet officer appear on the floor of either House to answer questions?
No. Cabinet officers frequently testify before House and Senate committees and subcommittees, but they may not appear on the floor of either Chamber to respond publicly to Members’ questions. There have been proposals to permit such a ‘‘question period’’ by amending congressional rules, but they have not been approved.
My Thoughts
If Congress has questions for cabinet members, they can call a hearing or visit the Cabinet member at the White House for an informal meeting, provided the Cabinet member agrees. Cabinet members are under oath during hearings, but not during informal gatherings.
Back next time with Q&A #78: Are visitors allowed to listen to the proceedings of Congress?
Meanwhile, don’t forget that we’re organizing the post links on a single page available here.
xo,
Kelley for the Savvy Citizen Team
April 10, 2025