What is the position of the president in terms of influence over the executive branch personnel and decisions?

The president's influence over the executive branch personnel and decisions is indeed limited by law. While the president has significant authority and can make key appointments within the executive branch, this power is not absolute. Statutory regulations and constitutional provisions impose restrictions on how appointments are made and how the executive branch operates.

For instance, many positions require Senate confirmation, meaning that the president's choices must be approved by the Senate, thereby limiting unilateral decisions. Additionally, various laws delineate the functions and responsibilities of executive agencies, which further curtail the president's ability to influence decisions directly.

This balance is crucial for maintaining checks and balances within the federal system, ensuring that no single branch of government, including the executive, becomes too powerful. Therefore, the statement that the president's control is limited by law accurately reflects the structure of governance in the United States.