82nd Congress (1951 - 1953)

House of Representatives

House Majority: Democrat

House Majority Seats: 235 out of 435

House Speaker: Rep. Sam Rayburn (D-TX)

Senate

Senate Majority: Democrat

Senate Majority Seats: 49 out of 96

Senate Majority Leader: Sen. Ernest McFarland (D-AZ)

Executive

President: Harry S. Truman (D-MO)

Vice President: Alben Barkley (D-KY)

Member Spotlight

Featured: Sen. Patrick 'Pat' McCarran (D-NV) was a powerful and controversial figure in mid-20th century American politics. Born in 1876 in Reno, Nevada, he rose from modest beginnings as a rancher and lawyer to become Nevada’s first native-born U.S. Senator, serving from 1933 until his death in 1954. McCarran authored and backed landmark legislation including the McCarran Internal Security Act (1950) aimed at subversive activities, the Immigration and Nationality Act (McCarran-Walter Act), and key measures regulating aviation and administrative procedures. Known as a staunch anti-communist and ardent defender of state sovereignty, his fierce reputation and legislative influence made him a central—though divisive—force in American public policy.

Enactments

• India Emergency Food Aid Act
• Reciprocal Trade Act Extension
• Defense Production Act Amendments of 1951
• Agriculture Appropriations Act of 1951
• Mutual Security Act of 1951
• Legislative Branch Appropriations Act of 1951
• War with Germany Termination
• Revenue Act of 1951
• Mutual Defense Assistance Control Act
• Mutual Security Act of 1952
• McCarran-Walter Act
• Puerto Rice Constitution
• Agriculture Appropriations Act of 1952
• Legislative Branch Appropriations Act of 1952
• Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act
• Federal Coal Mine Safety Act Amendments
• Wire Fraud Act of 1952
• Social Security Increase