What the president can and can't do with executive orders

Executive orders can be challenged in courts, with a significant number of recent executive orders facing legal challenges. Congress can also pass legislation to nullify an executive order, but this is difficult due to presidential veto power. Most readily, a successor president can revoke previous executive orders.

Harry Truman desegregated the armed forces via executive order in 1948. Richard Nixon used an executive order to impose wage and price controls in 1970, though this was authorized by an earlier congressional statute.

Presidential executive orders have been utilized since George Washington's presidency. Most executive orders are directed at officials serving at the president's pleasure, aiming to guide their activities and establish priorities.

Unlike legislation, which is passed by Congress, signed by the president, and involves negotiation between branches, executive orders do not possess the same legal force. They cannot order the expenditure of unappropriated money.

Executive orders can be seen as both a strength and a weakness. They project an image of a decisive president taking action, signaling to supporters that things are getting done. However, they are also inherently impermanent and easily overturned. Furthermore, focusing on executive orders can divert attention and energy away from pursuing legislative achievements.

The long-term effect of executive orders remains uncertain, especially considering potential challenges from the courts, Congress, and future presidents. Subsequent administrations often have different policy agendas and may revoke or alter existing executive orders.