Presidential System

Presidential system

a form of government in which the executive branch is separated from the legislature. the president is both head of state and government, and is elected separately from the legislative body

Main features of a Presidential system

the three branches function independently, the president serves for a set period of time (4 years in the USA), direct and indirect elections (by the people or electoral colleges), president selects their cabinet (usually outside the legislature), the president can only be removed through legal procedures (not through parliamentary votes of no confidence)

Advantages

clear separation of powers reduces abuse of power, stability due to fixed terms, direct mandate from voters strengthen legitimacy

Disadvantages

potential gridlock between the executive and legislature, difficult removal of ineffective leaders, less accountability to the legislature