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[–] -5 points 1 day ago* (last edited 23 hours ago) (2 children)

That's not how it works in the Senate; it's all seniority. But the House? The Speaker doesn't even have to be a member.

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  • [–] 3 points 18 hours ago

    president pro tempore is the position that is customarily (since the 1940s) given to the most senior senator representing the majority party, and 'officially' chosen by the entire chamber. that position is the one that is third in line (behind vp and house speaker) for the white house, and the one that fills-in for the vp for senate duties (except tie-breaking votes) when the vp is absent.

    the majority leader is chosen by the members of the majority party only. they speak for and represent the party and their office also deals with administrative and scheduling duties, including controlling the flow of legislation through the chamber. it is considered the most powerful position in congress.

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