’Prisoner’ life in the White House, what the US President cannot do

The President of the United States is known as the most powerful person in the world. He has unlimited political power in his hands. But behind this power, he has to follow some strict rules, which are very normal for an ordinary citizen. Recently, a discussion between security expert Carla Mastracchio and constitutional law expert Devin Schindler brought up some strange and surprising limitations of the president's life.

1. No opportunity to drive a car

The president and vice presidents cannot drive a car on the open road while in office (and even in many cases after leaving office). For security reasons, the Secret Service is always in the driver's seat. Previously, Lyndon B. Johnson was the last president to drive a car himself. However, they are allowed to ride a bicycle or walk in secure private areas like Camp David.

2. Ban on common electronic devices

For security reasons, presidents cannot use common smartphones or gadgets bought from the market. Barack Obama fought hard to use his beloved BlackBerry, which was later specially secured and allowed to use it. Similarly, Joe Biden had to go through strict security changes before using his Apple Watch or Peleton bike.

3. Attending children's schools or events

Security is so strict that the president cannot attend his children's school cultural events or sports events if he wants. Because the amount of security that has to be created due to his presence there disrupts the normal life of other students and parents. That is why many presidents' children have studied inside the White House.

4. 'Blocking' someone on social media

According to a 2018 court ruling, the US president cannot block someone from his personal social media account. This is seen as a violation of citizens' 'freedom of speech'. In addition, their social media accounts are always under surveillance.

5. Not allowed to open windows

As surprising as it may sound, the president cannot open the windows of the White House or his car if he wants. Michelle Obama once said in an interview that when she had a little chance to open the car window after eight long years, it felt like a great freedom to her. The White House windows are always sealed to prevent outside attacks.

6. Using commercial airlines

The president cannot travel on a regular passenger plane if he wants. Although he has luxurious facilities like ‘Air Force One’, he still has no opportunity to stand in line to board the plane like ordinary people.

7. Cleaning his own office

The president cannot clean his own office or throw any mail directly into the dustbin if he wants. According to the ‘Presidential Records Act’, it is mandatory to preserve every email and official paper. They are only allowed to be removed after the staff has reviewed them.

Special note: Technically, the Secret Service obeys the orders of the president. If the President wants to go somewhere dangerous, the Secret Service can discourage him but not stop him. However, under the law (18 U.S.C. 3056), the President can never refuse to seek Secret Service protection.

Source: Reader's Digest