Which body of Congress is considered the upper house?

The Senate is recognized as the upper house of Congress, largely due to its structure and powers differing from those of the House of Representatives. Each state is represented by two senators, regardless of its population size, which promotes equal representation among states. Senators serve longer terms of six years compared to the two-year terms of House members, allowing for greater stability and continuity. The Senate also possesses unique responsibilities, such as confirming presidential appointments (like federal judges and cabinet members) and ratifying treaties. These functions further establish the Senate’s role as the upper house, characterized by a higher level of prestige and broader powers in the legislative process.