Government, made understandable.

Congress sets the number of Supreme Court seats by statute; the size has changed historically and has been nine since 1869. Supporters of expansion argue it could address perceived legitimacy or workload concerns. Opponents argue it could invite partisan retaliation and weaken judicial independence.

District maps are redrawn after the census. Critics of partisan gerrymandering argue that boundary choices can dilute some voters' power; defenders of legislative mapmaking emphasize accountability to elected state officials. Federal law imposes particular limits involving race and equal population.

Rules on ballot requests, eligibility, identification, deadlines, witnesses, and return options vary by jurisdiction. Arguments focus on accessibility, election administration, fraud prevention, and verification measures; read your election office's actual rules.

Senate rules permit extended debate; cloture often requires three-fifths of senators for legislation, with important exceptions. Defenders say it can encourage extended deliberation and minority participation; critics say it can impede majority-backed legislation.

States appoint electors according to constitutional and state-law rules; 270 of 538 electoral votes are normally needed to win. Discussion commonly contrasts federal-state structure with popular-vote representation.

A bill moves through chambers of Congress and may be approved or vetoed by the President. Congress can override a veto by two-thirds majorities in both chambers.