Buttigieg argues that presidential power has historically relied on self-restraint rather than formal constitutional limits, and that Trump's aggressive use of executive authority — particularly on tariffs, war, and spending — combined with a divided Congress, raises questions about institutional accountability. NBC News confirms Trump has acted unilaterally on matters traditionally requiring congressional approval. Congress does face documented challenges with polarization and gridlock that have made it harder to pass legislation, though characterizing it as completely non-functioning overstates the degree of actual paralysis. Most of Buttigieg's broader argument about the dangers of executive power unchecked by institutional restraint rests on his interpretation of how the system should work, rather than settled factual claims.