Ranking Member
Short Definition
The most senior (though not necessarily the longest-serving) member of the minority party on a committee (or.
Long Explanation
The most senior (though not necessarily the longest-serving) member of the minority party on a committee (or subcommittee). The ranking member typically oversees minority committee staff and may coordinate involvement of the minority party committee members in committee activities.
In practice, Ranking Member is useful because it helps a visitor connect a word or phrase to government records, official decisions, public services, or civic responsibilities. When you see the term in an official source, ask which office has authority, what decision is being made, which deadline or rule matters, and where the public record can be checked.
Examples
Common Misconception
A common mistake is treating Ranking Member as a slogan instead of a term connected to a specific public process. The safest approach is to ask what authority, document, deadline, office, or public record gives the term its meaning.
Related Terms
Legislative ProcessCongress Committees
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