What is an executive order?

An executive order is a directive issued by the President of the United States that manages the operations of the federal government. It must conform to existing laws, meaning it cannot create new laws or contradict legislation passed by Congress. This aspect ensures that executive orders operate within the bounds of existing legal frameworks.

Additionally, executive orders can be relatively easily changed or repealed by subsequent executive orders or actions from the President or through judicial challenges, allowing for flexibility in how government is managed. Because of these two characteristics—conformance to existing laws and the ability to be modified or rescinded—the correct understanding of an executive order incorporates both aspects. Thus, the correct conclusion includes the need for compliance with law as well as the mutable nature of the directive.