Each year, the president submits a budget request to Congress detailing proposed spending across all federal agencies and programs. The request is a political document that reflects the administration's priorities but has no legal force — Congress controls actual spending through appropriations bills it passes and the president signs into law. The Office of Management and Budget prepares the document under 31 U.S.C. § 1105. Historically, Congress departs significantly from the president's request, especially when the opposing party controls either chamber.