What potential action can a president take regarding a bill that effectively stops it without issuing a formal veto?

The action that a president can take regarding a bill which effectively stops it, without issuing a formal veto, is known as a pocket veto. A pocket veto occurs when the president does not sign a bill into law within ten days while Congress is adjourned. By failing to act on the bill, the legislation does not become law. This method prevents the bill from being formally rejected through a veto, but also ensures it cannot proceed.

The pocket veto is a strategic tool that allows the president to avoid making a public statement about the bill—either positive or negative—while effectively preventing its enactment. Additionally, this action highlights the constitutional balance of power between the executive and legislative branches, as Congress must keep in session for the president’s signature or the possibility of a veto.

Other choices, such as an executive order and signing statement, pertain to different aspects of presidential power and do not specifically involve stopping legislation that has been passed by Congress. An override relates to Congress's ability to pass a bill despite a presidential veto, which is not applicable in this context.