The president is responsible for a variety of powers and roles, but there are some things that the president explicitly cannot do, such as making laws directly, declaring war, or acting without Congressional approval in certain areas.

Responsibilities Not Held by the President

• The president cannot declare war; this power lies with Congress.

• The president cannot make laws; only Congress has legislative authority.

• The president cannot decide the federal budget alone; Congress must approve the budget.

• The president cannot interpret the Constitution or overturn laws; this is the role of the judiciary.

• The president cannot serve in a legislative or judicial capacity simultaneously.

Examples of Prohibited Actions

• The president cannot raise taxes or allocate government spending without Congress.

• The president cannot appoint federal officials or judges without Senate approval (with some temporary exceptions during Congressional recesses).

• The president cannot act as a member of Congress or a sitting judge.

In summary, the president is limited by checks and balances, and is prohibited from legislative and judicial functions and any powers not granted by the Constitution or approved by Congress.