Limitations on presidential power

Constitutional Checks and Balances

The US Constitution limits the executive powers of the President, entrusting significant powers to the other branches of government.
The legislative branch (Congress) maintains the power of the purse, meaning it controls public money - from taxes and loans - and decides on its appropriation.
The Senate has the authority to approve or reject Presidential appointments to the judiciary and executive departments.
While the President proposes the federal budget, it is the Congress that approves and enforces it.
The judiciary branch (particularly the Supreme Court) can declare Presidential actions unconstitutional, as shown in cases like “United States v. Nixon” (1974).

This principle ensures the Presidential power is not absolute: the three branches of government - executive, legislative, and judicial - operate independently of each other.
Judicial review, a process where the courts can examine the legality of the President’s actions, serves as a check on executive power.

Congress can challenge Presidential power through the enactment of legislation that may hinder or modify the President’s policies.
Both the House of Representatives and the Senate can conduct investigations into Presidential conduct, providing a form of legislative oversight.
Impeachment is a drastic and rarely used power, but it exists as a tool for Congress to check the President. Presidents Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump have all experienced impeachment proceedings.

The President is elected to represent all US citizens and is responsive to public opinion.
Failure to address popular concerns can lead to low approval ratings, making it more challenging to pass legislation, gain support for policies, or secure re-election.

The media serves as another form of check and balance, scrutinizing Presidential actions and policies.
Media coverage can shape public opinion and, therefore, pressure the President to act or limit their actions.

The federal system divides power between the national government and the state governments, limiting the President’s domestic authority.
States have their own constitutions and governments, sovereign in matters not delegated to the federal government. State opposition can pose substantial challenges to Presidential authority and policies.