The salary of the President of the United States is set by Congress. Specifically, it is established under Title 3 of the United States Code, Section 102. Congress has the authority to determine the compensation for the President, which has been a matter of public discussion and legislation over the years.
Currently, the President’s annual salary is $400,000, a figure that was set by the 2001 Salary Adjustment Law. Additionally, the President receives a $50,000 expense account, a $100,000 nontaxable travel account, and a $19,000 entertainment budget, which further contribute to their total compensation.
The process of setting the President’s salary can be seen as a reflection of the legislative branch’s ability to influence the executive branch. Importantly, the salary cannot be changed during a President’s term in office; any adjustments made will take effect only for the following President. This provision aims to prevent Congress from using salary adjustments as a means of political leverage against the sitting President.