Executive Privilege
/ɪɡˈzɛkjətɪv ˈprɪvəlɪdʒ/
Definitions
- (n.) A doctrine allowing the president and high-level executive branch officials to withhold information from Congress, the courts, and ultimately the public to preserve confidential communications or secure national interests.
The president asserted executive privilege to refuse testimony during the congressional investigation.
Forms
- executive privilege
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Executive privilege is narrowly construed and often balanced against other government interests such as oversight and transparency.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.