Originally posted by Pyros
Its not necessarily a matter of clearance - its a matter of access and need-to-know.
The President is undoubtedly cleared Top Secret, like many others, however, exactly what he has access to is probably limited.
For example, he does not have a need-to-know for sensitive technical data regarding the operation and specifications of Keyhole satellites. While he
may need access to the intelligence product that they provide, and maybe even their tactical capabilties, he doesn't need to know "how" they work
or "what" makes them work, which is classified under separate security compartments.
Despite popular opinion, there are no "master" security clearances that gives an individual carte blanche access to all classified information.
Even the Director of Central Intelligence cannot see everything, unless he has a specific need to do so.
Checks and balances at its finest. The President can't legislate or make rulings in court, but he can veto bills and pardon criminals. He can't know
all the details about sensitive satellite information, but he can get information regarding intelligence reports.
It has its bad side, in that people can be doing their own secret "side projects" unknown to the rest of the government officials. It has its plus
side as well, in that no single person has absolute control over everything. Checks and balances. Give and take.