An '''executive order''' is an action which does not require the approval of the [[Congress]], by the [[President]]. It cannot contradict or override any [[law]], but can direct agencies in the [[executive branch]] in accordance with law. For example, only the President can issue an Executive Order for a [[budget sequester]], by law. [[Conservative]]s are often critical of executive orders for how they bypass the [[United States Constitution]]al process for enacting [[bills|new laws]]. | An '''executive order''' is an action which does not require the approval of the [[Congress]], by the [[President]]. It cannot contradict or override any [[law]], but can direct agencies in the [[executive branch]] in accordance with law. For example, only the President can issue an Executive Order for a [[budget sequester]], by law. [[Conservative]]s are often critical of executive orders for how they bypass the [[United States Constitution]]al process for enacting [[bills|new laws]]. |