What is meant by "executive privilege"?

"Executive privilege" refers specifically to the right of the President and other members of the executive branch to withhold information from Congress, the courts, or the public, particularly if releasing such information would potentially harm the interests of the nation or the functioning of the executive branch. This concept is rooted in the need for confidentiality in executive decision-making, allowing the President to receive candid advice and protect sensitive information pertaining to national security and foreign policy.

This privilege is not absolute, and its limits can come into play in legal contexts where Congress or the courts may seek information for oversight. The understanding of executive privilege underscores the balance of power among government branches, highlighting the delicate interaction between accountability and the necessity of confidentiality in certain executive actions.