The Venezuelan Government operates as a federal presidential republic, where the President serves as both the head of state and government. The government is divided into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial. The National Assembly is the legislative body, while the Supreme Court oversees the judiciary. Since 1999, the government has been influenced by the policies of Hugo Chávez and his successor, Nicolás Maduro. The country has faced significant political and economic challenges, including hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods, leading to widespread protests and international scrutiny of its governance.