What is a "pocket veto"?

A "pocket veto" refers specifically to the scenario when the President does not take action on a bill for a period of time that coincides with Congress adjourning. Under this circumstance, the bill effectively does not become law because the President has neither signed it nor issued a formal veto.

This process is significant because it allows the President to indirectly prevent a bill from becoming law without having to explicitly refuse it. The Constitution provides that if the President does not sign a bill within ten days (excluding Sundays) and Congress is still in session, the bill automatically becomes law. However, if Congress adjourns during that ten-day period and the President takes no action, the bill is effectively "put in the pocket" and does not become law.

This mechanism can be a strategic political tool for Presidents, allowing them to avoid the responsibility of a formal veto while still exerting influence over legislation.