Senate 101

The U.S. Senate is often called "the world's greatest deliberative body." Every state gets exactly two senators, regardless of population. That means Wyoming (population ~580,000) has the same Senate representation as California (population ~39 million).

The 3-Class System

To avoid replacing the entire Senate at once, senators are divided into three groups called "classes":

Special Elections

When a senator leaves office before their term is up (resignation, death, or appointment to another role), their state may hold a special election to fill the seat. In 2026, there are two special elections:

• Ohio — JD Vance resigned to become Vice President
• Florida — Marco Rubio resigned to become Secretary of State

What Does a Senator Do?

• Writes and votes on legislation
• Confirms (or rejects) the president's nominees for judges, cabinet members, and ambassadors
• Ratifies treaties with foreign nations
• Conducts impeachment trials
• Represents their entire state's interests