What is the symbol representing the President in a formal assembly?

The gavel serves as a symbol representing the President in a formal assembly. It is commonly used during meetings and legislative sessions to maintain order, signify the beginning or end of proceedings, and denote authority. When the President, often referred to as the presiding officer in formal settings, uses the gavel, it conveys their role in facilitating discussions and decision-making processes.

In contrast, other symbols mentioned, such as the star, pen, and balanced budget, do not carry the same official connotation of leadership within a formal assembly. The star is generally associated with military or decorative honors, the pen symbolizes the signing of legislation or agreements, and the balanced budget relates to fiscal discipline rather than direct representation in formal gatherings. Therefore, the gavel is the most fitting representation of the President's role in this context.