Wisconsin State Senate

The Wisconsin State Senate, whose powers are modeled after those of the U.S. Senate, is the upper house of the Wisconsin State Legislature, smaller than the Wisconsin State Assembly. Together, they comprise the legislative branch of the state of Wisconsin.

Related Topics:
U.S. Senate - Wisconsin State Legislature - Wisconsin State Assembly - Legislative branch - Wisconsin

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Wisconsin is divided into 33 Senate Districts apportioned amongst the state based on population as determined by the decennial census, for a total of 33 Senators. Similar to the U.S. Senate, in addition to its duty of passing all legislation passed through the legislature, the State Senate has the exclusive responsibility of confirming certain Governor's appointments, particularly cabinet secretaries (as part of the system of checks and balances) and members of boards and commissions.

Related Topics:
Census - Governor's - Checks and balances

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Senators are elected for four year terms, staggered so that half the Senate is up for election every two years. If a vacancy occurs in a Senate seat between elections, it may be filled only by a special election.

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The Senate chamber is located in the south wing of the Wisconsin State Capitol building, in Madison, Wisconsin.

Related Topics:
Wisconsin State Capitol - Madison, Wisconsin

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