<P> The Constitution specifies that a majority of members constitutes a quorum to do business in each house . The rules of each house provide that a quorum is assumed to be present unless a quorum call demonstrates the contrary . Representatives and senators rarely force the presence of a quorum by demanding quorum calls; thus, in most cases, debates continue even if a majority is not present . </P> <P> Both houses use voice voting to decide most matters; members shout out "aye" or "no," and the presiding officer announces the result . The Constitution, however, requires a recorded vote on the demand of one - fifth of the members present . If the result of the voice vote is unclear, or if the matter is controversial, a recorded vote usually ensues . The Senate uses roll - call votes; a clerk calls out the names of all the senators, each senator stating "aye" or "no" when his or her name is announced . The House reserves roll - call votes for the most formal matters, as a roll - call of all 435 representatives takes quite some time; normally, members vote by electronic device . In the case of a tie, the motion in question fails . In the Senate, the Vice President may (if present) cast the tiebreaking vote . </P>

Who votes on a bill first senate or house