Final answer:
The U.S. presidential cabinet consists of the vice president and heads of 15 executive departments, with cabinet members confirmed by the Senate. The Senate and House of Representatives share legislative powers, though the Senate uniquely confirms appointments and ratifies treaties. Congress checks presidential power through veto overrides and oversight functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the United States, the presidential cabinet includes the vice president and the heads of the 15 executive departments. Cabinet members such as the Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, and Secretary of the Treasury play significant roles in advising the president on various areas of governance. The Attorney General heads the Department of Justice and is also a key cabinet member. Each cabinet member must be confirmed by the Senate through a process which includes hearings and a majority vote.
The power shared by both the Senate and the House of Representatives is the legislative authority as outlined by the U.S. Constitution. This means both bodies are responsible for crafting, debating, and passing federal laws. One specific power they share is the authority to declare war. However, certain powers are distinct; for example, the Senate has the unique responsibility to confirm presidential appointments and ratify treaties, as part of the system of checks and balances.
Moreover, the power of the president is checked by Congress in various ways, such as through the override of a presidential veto which requires a two-thirds majority in both houses, or by the Senate's ability to refuse confirmation of appointments or ratification of treaties. Congress can also limit the influence of the president by exercising its powers of investigation and oversight over the executive branch.