An executive order is a directive or command issued by the President of the United States that manages operations of the federal government. It has the force of law and can be used to implement policies, regulations, or procedures without Congressional approval.
Related terms
Presidential Powers: These are powers granted to the President by the Constitution that allow them to execute laws, negotiate treaties, appoint officials, and more.
Checks and Balances: This term refers to the system in which each branch of government (executive, legislative, judicial) has some control over other branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
Federal Government: The federal government refers to the national government based in Washington D.C. that has authority over all states and deals with national issues such as defense and foreign policy.