The RMI has a mixed parliamentary-presidential system operating through a bicameral model. The Lower House (Nitijela) consists of 33 elected Senators who in turn elect the President, who is also the Head of State. The president selects a twelve member cabinet to assist in matters of governance. The Upper House consists of a Council of Chiefs that advises the Government.

All adult Marshallese are entitled to vote in the four-yearly general elections. Every atoll is represented by at least one Member of Parliament, with the larger islands having greater representation.