The political framework of the United States

Political Outline

Current Political Leaders: President: Donald J. TRUMP (since 20 January 2025) - Republican Party
Vice President: James David VANCE (since 20 January 2025) - Republican Party
Next Election Dates: Presidential: November 2028
House of Representatives: November 2026
Senate: November 2026
Main Political Parties: Two political parties dominate U.S. politics:

- The Democratic Party: socially progressive, favours government intervention to regulate and balance the market economy.
- The Republican Party (also known as the Grand Old Party, GOP): socially conservative, supports free-market capitalism and emphasises national defence.
In addition to the two major parties, there are several other political parties. These include the Reform Party, the Libertarian Party, the Green Party, and the Constitution Party, among others, such as the Natural Law Party, the Party for Socialism and Liberation, the Working Class Party, and the Working Families Party.
Executive Power: The President is the Chief of State, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and the Head of Government. The President is elected by an Electoral College, with electors chosen by voters in each state, to serve a four-year term. These powers are checked by the U.S. Congress, which has legislative authority and oversight responsibilities. The Cabinet is appointed by the President and subject to approval by the Senate.
Legislative Power: The United States has a bicameral legislature. Congress consists of two chambers: the Senate (upper house) and the House of Representatives (lower house). The Senate has the power to confirm or reject presidential appointments, such as cabinet members and federal judges, and to ratify treaties. It is composed of 100 senators. The House of Representatives has the exclusive power to initiate revenue bills, which may be amended or rejected by the Senate. It is composed of 435 members. The President has the power to veto legislation passed by Congress, but Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers.

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