What vote is required in both houses to override a presidential veto?

Prepare for the American Government Basic Skills Test with our comprehensive quiz that includes multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and get ready for the exam!

Multiple Choice

What vote is required in both houses to override a presidential veto?

Overriding a presidential veto requires broad support in both chambers of Congress. The Constitution allows a vetoed bill to become law only if two-thirds of the members voting in each chamber approve it. In practice, that means a two-thirds vote in the House and a two-thirds vote in the Senate. If both chambers reach those thresholds, the bill becomes law despite the president’s objections. This ensures only measures with substantial, cross-chamber backing can override a veto. It isn’t about a simple majority, unanimous consent, or the three-fifths rule (which is used for ending debate in the Senate, not for veto overrides).

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