German politics operates within a federal parliamentary republic framework. The country is divided into 16 states, each with its own government. The Bundestag is the primary legislative body, elected by the citizens, while the Bundesrat represents the states. The Chancellor is the head of government, responsible for leading the executive branch. Political parties play a crucial role in shaping policies and governance. The major parties include the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the Social Democratic Party (SPD), and the Green Party. Coalition governments are common, as no single party usually gains an outright majority in the Bundestag.