What majority must a bill achieve to overcome a presidential veto?

To override a presidential veto, a bill must achieve a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of Congress, which are the House of Representatives and the Senate. This requirement is stipulated in Article I, Section 7 of the United States Constitution, which outlines the legislative process and specifically addresses how Congress can counter a presidential veto.

The rationale for needing a two-thirds majority reflects the framers' intention to ensure that a significant consensus exists among lawmakers before a bill can become law despite the President's objections. This high threshold aims to promote thorough consideration and bipartisan support for legislation, ensuring that only those measures with substantial backing can override executive authority.

Other options, such as a simple majority or a majority in just one house, do not provide the necessary consensus for such a significant action as overriding a veto. The two-thirds requirement underscores the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches.