The Senate Chamber
The Senate moved into its current chamber when the north wing of
the Capitol was completed in 1859. Since the Civil War era, senators
have deliberated, voted on legislation, and advised on and consented to
treaties and nominations in this chamber. As president of the Senate, the
vice president of the United States presides from the central dais. The tier
below is assigned to the assistant secretary of the Senate, the journal
clerk, parliamentarian, and legislative clerk.
One hundred desks are arranged in a semicircular pattern divided
according to party. Viewed from the dais, the Senate chamber has the
Republicans seated to the left and the Democrats to the right of the center
aisle. Many longstanding traditions are respected in the Senate. Each
senator chooses a desk and location on the basis of seniority within his or
her political party. Galleries surrounding the chamber provide viewing
space for the public and press.
Historic Events in the Senate Chamber
Panorama Hot Spots