How can Congress override a presidential veto?

• A. By conducting a special election
• B. By achieving a simple majority vote in both chambers
• C. By achieving a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers
• D. By seeking a Supreme Court ruling

Answer: (C)

To override a presidential veto, Congress must achieve a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This requirement is outlined in Article I, Section 7 of the U.S. Constitution, which states that a bill can become law despite a presidential veto only if two-thirds of the members present in both chambers agree to re-pass the bill. Achieving this high threshold demonstrates substantial bipartisan support and is intended to ensure that only legislation with widespread approval can override the executive branch's objections. This process reinforces the system of checks and balances that is fundamental to U.S. governance, as it allows Congress to exert its legislative power while still giving the President a significant role in lawmaking through the veto power.