power of the purse

Cultural  

1. The influence that legislatures have over public policy because of their power to vote money for public purposes. The United States Congress must authorize the president's budget requests to fund agencies and programs of the executive branch. (See appropriation.)

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Example Sentences

“It is deflating, and it is unfortunate that Congress is not defending the power of the purse,” said Colorado Attorney General Philip Weiser, during Monday’s press conference.

From Los Angeles Times

Article 1 of the Constitution gives the power of the purse to Congress.

From The Wall Street Journal

Lawmakers should use their clearest constitutional power over the military: the power of the purse.

From The Wall Street Journal

If Congress opposes a military action, it can use its power of the purse to cut off funding for the conflict.

From The Wall Street Journal

The legislative branch would have chambers representing the people and the states, holding the power of the purse and the power to make law.

From The Wall Street Journal