As of January 23, 2026, I can’t reliably tell you who the current President of the United States is because I don’t have live, real-time access to election results or government updates beyond my knowledge cutoff (August 2025). Since the U.S. presidency can change due to elections, inauguration timing, resignation, or other constitutional events, the most accurate answer requires checking an official, up-to-date source.

That said, here is what I can state with confidence based on verified historical information up to my cutoff:

• Joe Biden was the President of the United States from January 20, 2021 through at least August 2025 (my cutoff period).
• He served as the 46th President of the United States.
• His Vice President was Kamala D. Harris.

Example of how to verify the current president right now:

• Visit the official White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/ (the “President” page is typically updated immediately when administrations change).
• Check the U.S. government’s official directory: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials.
• Confirm via the U.S. National Archives (which documents presidential administrations and inaugurations): https://www.archives.gov/.

Context: How the U.S. President is determined (and when it changes)

The President of the United States is elected indirectly through the Electoral College. Presidential elections are held every four years (e.g., 2020, 2024). The winner is inaugurated on January 20 following the election (unless that date is modified by constitutional or legal circumstances).

Example: After the 2020 election, Joe Biden was inaugurated on January 20, 2021, becoming the 46th President.

What the President does (examples of responsibilities)

• Signs bills into law or vetoes legislation passed by Congress.
• Issues executive orders to direct operations of the federal government.
• Serves as Commander in Chief of the U.S. Armed Forces.
• Appoints federal judges (including Supreme Court justices), ambassadors, and cabinet members (with Senate confirmation for many roles).
• Conducts foreign policy, including negotiating treaties (treaties require Senate ratification).

Example: A president may propose a federal budget, sign major legislation affecting healthcare or infrastructure, and nominate judges to federal courts.

References (official and reliable sources)

• The White House (official)
• USA.gov: Elected Officials (official)
• National Archives (official)
• Library of Congress (official)

If you tell me whether you want the answer for today (current president) or for a specific date, I can tailor the response—and if you share what source you’re using (e.g., White House page, news report), I can help interpret it.