Who has the authority to veto bills?

The authority to veto bills resides with the President of the United States. This power is established in the Constitution under Article I, Section 7, which outlines the legislative process. When Congress passes a bill, it is sent to the President, who has the option to approve it or to veto it, effectively rejecting the bill. The veto acts as a check on the legislative branch, ensuring that the President has a way to prevent bills from becoming law if they are deemed undesirable or contrary to the executive agenda.

This process highlights the system of checks and balances integral to the U.S. government, wherein each branch has specific powers and responsibilities that limit the others. The Supreme Court does not have veto power; rather, it interprets laws and ensures they align with the Constitution. Similarly, neither the Senate nor the House of Representatives possess the authority to veto legislation passed by the other chamber; rather, they can only propose, amend, and pass bills, which will then be presented to the President for approval or veto.