The president cannot pass laws without Congress, and Congress cannot pass laws without Presidential approval. Though the presidential veto is a formidable power, the ability of Congress to override it ensures that the president does not have full authority over what becomes law and what does not. read more
The President checks Congress when he vetoes a bill that the Congress has passed. Congress can check him if a 2/3 majority votes to override his veto. Also, the President can check Congress by using the media (the "bully pulpit") to set the agenda for Congress. read more
While the president has the right to veto a bill, Congress in turn has the power to override the president's veto. To do this, two-thirds of both the House of Representatives and the Senate must vote in favor of the override. read more