Who had the power in the roman state?

In the Roman state, power was primarily held by a mix of aristocratic families, particularly the Senate, and elected officials such as consuls. The Senate, composed of elite patricians and influential plebeians, wielded significant influence over legislation and state affairs. Additionally, the Roman populace could exert power through assemblies and voting, particularly during the Republic. However, during the Empire, power became centralized in the hands of the emperor, diminishing the role of the Senate.