Veto override
Definition
A veto override is a vote by which a legislature enacts a bill into law over the governor's objection, despite the governor having vetoed it. Most states require a supermajority, commonly three-fifths or two-thirds of both chambers, to succeed.
Why it matters
Whether a legislature holds a "veto-proof" majority determines how much real check the governor's veto power provides. In states with one-party supermajorities, the veto can become largely symbolic. Override votes also reveal which legislators are willing to break from their party or governor, a rare moment of visible accountability.
Seen in the wild
In North Carolina's 2025 session, the Republican-controlled legislature overrode eight of Governor Josh Stein's vetoes, including HB 402, which the House passed 73-47 with two Democrats joining Republicans to reach the three-fifths threshold required under the state constitution.