How can Congress override a presidential veto?

Study for the FGCU Civic Literacy Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations, to prepare confidently. Get ready for your exam!

The process for Congress to override a presidential veto requires a two-thirds majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This high threshold ensures that there is significant bipartisan support for the legislation, reflecting the checks and balances built into the United States government.

When the president vetoes a bill, it is returned to Congress, where lawmakers can choose to revisit and debate the legislation. If two-thirds of both chambers agree to the bill, it becomes law despite the president's objection. This mechanism prevents any single branch of government from having unilateral power and ensures that laws enacted have widespread support among elected representatives.

In contrast, other options entail lower voting thresholds or provisions that do not align with the established requirements set forth in the Constitution for overriding a veto. This reinforces the need for a substantial consensus among lawmakers to counteract the president's decision, highlighting the significance of collaboration and compromise in the legislative process.

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