Divided government occurs when different political parties control different branches of government. For example, one party may hold the presidency while another party controls one or both houses of Congress. This situation can lead to challenges in passing legislation, as cooperation between parties is often necessary to achieve common goals. In a divided government, the potential for gridlock increases, meaning that little progress may be made on important issues. However, it can also encourage compromise and negotiation, as parties must work together to govern effectively. This dynamic is a key feature of the United States political system.