<P> In the United States, divided government describes a situation in which one party controls the executive branch while another party controls one or both houses of the legislative branch . </P> <P> Divided government is seen by different groups as a benefit or as an undesirable product of the model of governance used in the U.S. political system . Under said model, known as the separation of powers, the state is divided into different branches . Each branch has separate and independent powers and areas of responsibility so that the powers of one branch are not in conflict with the powers associated with the others . However, the degree to which the President of the United States has control of Congress often determines his political strength - such as the ability to pass sponsored legislation, ratify treaties, and have Cabinet members and judges approved . </P>

When different parties control the white house and congress