Understanding Executive Orders: What the President Can and Cannot Do
There’s a lot of confusion on social media about the power of executive orders, so let’s clear this up: The President of the United States cannot create or change laws with an executive order, especially when it comes to something as fundamental as the U.S. Constitution.
Take the 14th Amendment as an example. This amendment, which guarantees equal protection under the law and outlines birthright citizenship, is part of the Constitution—our nation’s highest legal authority. Changing or undermining it would require either a constitutional amendment (a lengthy process requiring Congress and the states) or a ruling from the Supreme Court, not an executive order.
Executive orders cannot override laws passed by Congress, nor can they supersede the Constitution. They are administrative tools that allow the President to direct how federal agencies enforce existing laws within the boundaries of the law itself.
While they can influence policy, executive orders are not all-powerful. Checks and balances—including judicial review—ensure no branch of government can act unilaterally outside its constitutional authority.
Before spreading or believing claims about “changing the law” through executive orders, it’s important to know the limits of presidential power. Understanding this protects the integrity of our democracy and ensures accountability for all leaders.
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