What is a veto?

A veto is specifically defined as the President's power to reject a bill that has been passed by Congress. This mechanism is outlined in the U.S. Constitution and serves to provide a check on legislative power. When Congress passes a bill, it is sent to the President, who can either sign it into law or veto it. If a bill is vetoed, it is returned to Congress along with the President's reasons for disapproval. Congress can then attempt to override the veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

The importance of this power lies in its role in the system of checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. The veto thus acts as a critical tool for the President to influence legislation and maintain executive authority in the federal government.