The scope of executive privilege is defined as the right of the president and other high-ranking officials to withhold information from Congress, the courts, or the public. This concept is grounded in the need for candid advice and decision-making within the executive branch, allowing leaders to operate without fear of political backlash. However, executive privilege is not absolute; it is subject to legal challenges and must be balanced against the public's right to information. It plays a crucial role in the separation of powers, influencing the dynamics of government accountability.