U.S. Embassy Belize congratulates IVLP Alumnus Dion Vansen from the San Pedro Sun for his top-notch reporting on the differences between the U.S. and Belizean electoral systems. He offer great insights into the two systems and explains their difference in ways that are accessible for everyone, as well as providing resources for U.S. voters overseas. Bravo, Mr. Vansen!

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November will see two important general elections on the American continent, beginning with the United States on the 3rd and eight days later, on the 11th, when electorates will head to Belize's polls. Both countries have different government systems and processes on how the head of government is elected. In this article, we explore the differences between Belize and the United States.

Belize is a constitutional monarchy under a parliamentary democracy. Its electoral process elects a bicameral legislature called the National Assembly. The House of Representatives is the most powerful lower chamber, with 31 members elected for a five-year term in office (constituencies) on a first past the post basis. These members are called 'area representatives' and are given the title of 'The Honourable.'

Incumbent President Donald Trump under the Republican Party and former Vice President Joe Biden under the Democratic Party are the American presidential candidates. The United States does not have a Westminster system; thus, its government and head of state are a president who is elected by a body known as the 'Electoral College,' comprising of 538 members.

Click here to read the rest of the article by in the San Pedro Sun