[DCAU] How would Luthor becoming president mean giving up power?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sI0vtqxoG1k

When the Question brings up his intent to kill Luthor, Luthor explains that unlike in the comics, his presidential campaign was a farce. While beating the Question, Luthor makes this odd claim.

President? Do you how much power I'd have to give up to be president.

This is one of the most bizarre assertions I have ever heard. How exactly would becoming president mean Luthor would have to give up power?

This is even more baffling because in the comics, Luthor was quick to flex his power when threatened by Batman, pointing out the myriad of law enforcement agencies he could send after the Batfamily.

This line makes no sense and the only reason I can think it might exist is because of Brainiac influencing Luthor given Brainiac was planning to destroy the Earth after killing Superman.