You’ve probably heard the term “executive order” in the news a lot lately—especially with the current pace of decisions coming out of the White House. But what exactly is an executive order, and how does it work? If you’ve ever wondered whether presidents can really make sweeping changes without Congress, this guide is for you.
What Is an Executive Order?
An executive order is a directive from the president that tells parts of the federal government what to do. It’s based on the powers granted to the executive branch by the Constitution.
These orders are meant to help carry out existing laws—not create new ones. That means a president can’t use an executive order to override something Congress has passed or to take over responsibilities that belong to Congress or the courts.
What Executive Orders Can and Can’t Do
A president can use executive orders to set priorities, manage government agencies, and interpret how laws should be carried out. For example, they can tell the IRS to focus on certain types of tax enforcement or instruct the Department of Education to change how a rule is applied.
But executive orders can’t:
- Create new laws
- Spend money without Congress’s approval
- Override the Constitution or existing federal laws
If a president tries to do any of those things, the courts—or Congress—can step in.
How Long Does It Take for an Executive Order to Go Into Effect?
Some executive orders take effect right away. Others kick off a longer process, like asking a federal agency to propose a rule or submit a report. These steps can take weeks, months, or even years. So, even if an executive order makes headlines immediately, it might be a while before anything changes on the ground.
Can Executive Orders Be Stopped?
Yes. There are several ways an executive order can be blocked or reversed:
- Congress can pass a law that overrides it—if they have the constitutional authority to do so.
- The courts can strike it down if it violates the Constitution or a federal law.
- A future president can cancel or rewrite it with a new executive order.
This is part of the checks and balances system built into our government.
How Have Executive Orders Been Used in the Past?
Since George Washington, every U.S. president has issued executive orders. Some have led to major progress—like Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation or Truman’s order to desegregate the military. Others have caused lasting harm, like the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.
Executive orders are powerful tools. When used responsibly, they can help the government act quickly. When misused, they can cause confusion, injustice, and even violate people’s rights.
Why Should You Care?
Executive orders can change how laws are enforced, how benefits are distributed, and which communities are protected—or targeted. These decisions can directly affect access to housing, healthcare, education, and civil rights protections for low-income individuals and families.
That’s why it’s important to stay informed about what’s being ordered and whether those orders are lawful. Just because something is signed doesn’t mean it can’t be challenged—or stopped.
