The Senate was the Roman Republic's primary ruling body. The Roman Republic was headed by two consuls. A consul can be thought of as a state president of a country. These consuls were elected by the Roman citizens. After the consuls were elected and took office, they were advised by the Senate. The Senate was made up of a group of magistrates. A magistrate is a person responsible for administering the law. His role and function is very similar to that of a judge.