What is an executive order?

An executive order is a directive issued by the President of the United States to manage the operations of the federal government. This tool allows the President to implement and enforce laws passed by Congress, direct the administration of federal agencies, and manage various aspects of federal policy without the need for congressional approval.

Executive orders can cover a variety of administrative functions, such as establishing regulations, setting policies, or directing specific actions in response to urgent issues. They have the force of law and are used to ensure that the executive branch acts in accordance with the laws and priorities of the President's administration. The ability to issue executive orders is derived from the President's powers outlined in the Constitution and further defined by laws passed by Congress.

This understanding clarifies that legislative acts are the domain of Congress, amendments pertain to changes in the Constitution, and decisions made by the Supreme Court interpret and apply law, rather than directly managing executive functions. Each of these roles is distinct from the President's authority to issue executive orders, which serves as a vital mechanism for governing effectively within the executive branch.