executive privilege

noun

1. the discretionary right claimed by certain U.S. presidents to withhold information from Congress or the judiciary.

Word History and Origins

Origin of executive privilege¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

This limited scope of executive privilege, and the inherit right of congressional oversight, is a welcome step toward a more balanced government.

From The Daily Beast

The words “executive privilege” do not exist in the Constitution, nor is there a right to presidential privacy articulated in the original document.

From The Daily Beast

Yet, as presidential authority expanded over the course of the 20th century, so too did presidents’ assertion of executive privilege—all without additional legislation, statute, or constitutional amendment defining this right.

From The Daily Beast

On March 30, 1796, President George Washington asserted executive privilege for the first time.

From The Daily Beast

Costello’s letter notes that Bannon will comply with any court decisions that resolve disputed claims about executive privilege or attorney-client privilege.

From Washington Post

He is a creature of the White House, cloaked in executive privilege.

From The Daily Beast

But Obama cut off the document handover by invoking executive privilege.

From The Daily Beast

How can the president assert executive privilege if there was no White House involvement?

From The Daily Beast

Plus, Murphy on Obama flexing his executive privilege muscle on the issue.

From The Daily Beast