Executive orders

Definition

Executive orders are directives issued by the President of the United States that have the force of law, without needing approval from Congress. They are used to manage operations within the federal government and implement policy decisions.

Related terms

Separation of Powers: A fundamental principle of American government where powers are divided among three branches (legislative, executive, judicial) to prevent concentration and abuse of power.

Checks and Balances: A system designed to ensure no one branch of government becomes too powerful, allowing each branch some control over the others.

Veto Power: The president's authority to reject a bill passed by Congress, which is an example of checks and balances in action