A supermajority is a majority in a body of voters that exceeds one more than fifty percent (simple majority). It is often a term associated with Congress and is usually 3/5 or 2/3.
Examples of Congressional Votes that Require a Supermajority
Unlike a regular bill, more important votes in Congress require a supermajority. These include:
- Bring a vote of cloture to end a filibuster (Senate only)
- Proposed amendments to the Constitution
- Override a presidential veto
- Treaty ratification (Senate only)
- Removal of public official from office after impeachment (Senate only)