Executive orders are one of the most powerful instruments at the disposal of U.S. presidents, who can thus put into effect policies and directives without an immediate congressional mandate. Throughout history, this tool has provided the president with the flexibility to act rapidly, particularly during periods of crisis or when legislative action has come to a standstill.
Since 1937, only three presidents have issued executive orders on their first day in office: Joe Biden, Donald Trump, and Bill Clinton. If Trump, upon returning to the White House, signs an executive order on his first day, he will cement his place in history as a repeat user of this exceptional presidential privilege.
Executive Orders Since 1937
The Federal Register provides a careful tracking of executive orders since 1937. Comparing them among administrations shows immense differences, for instance, within Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR), where a total of 2,023 executive orders has been documented within his administration – the one by which he, during his lifetime, had spearheaded the combat during the Great Depression, introduced New Deal programs and managed the warfare of World War II.
Among other facts.
Harry Truman issued 906 presidential orders within the period of his presidency.
Bill Clinton: Made 364 executive orders during his two terms.
George H.W. Bush: Signed the fewest, just 46 in 1991.
Biden’s Momentous First Day and Week
President Joe Biden’s first day and week have been nothing but a demonstration of prolific executive order use in rescinding most policies of his predecessor. Here are some highlights:
Day one: signed nine executive orders mandating the wear of face masks on federal properties and revoking immigration rules prohibiting sanctuary communities from receiving refugees.
First Week Record: Biden issued 22 executive orders, the most of any president.
100 Days: Biden signed 42 executive orders, eventually totaling 160 throughout his presidency.
Notable Examples of Executive Orders
Presidents have used executive orders to make major policy changes:
Barack Obama (2014): Increased the minimum wage for federal contract workers to $10.10 after Congress failed to pass wage reform.
Donald Trump (2017): Implemented travel bans on several countries with a majority Muslim population, which became a source of controversy.
Joe Biden (2021): Joined the Paris Climate Agreement and canceled construction on the Keystone XL pipeline.
These are only a few illustrations of the significance of executive orders in overcoming the impasse created by Congress, which allows for wide-ranging policy actions.
Trump’s Return and Projected Executive Orders
Donald Trump’s vow to go into action as soon as he returns to the White House reignited debate on the role and limits of executive orders. While in his first term, Donald Trump issued 220 executive orders on a vast array of subjects, including immigration, trade, and national security.
To match Biden’s 22 executive orders signed in a single week, Trump would need to take an unprecedented action at the very first moment of office.
The Debate Over Executive Orders
While executive orders provide presidents with the ability to act decisively, they also raise concerns about potential overreach. Critics argue that excessive reliance on executive orders undermines the legislative process, while supporters view them as essential for addressing urgent matters.
As Donald Trump prepares for a possible return to the presidency, his use of executive orders will likely play a pivotal role in defining his agenda and legacy. Whether for swift policy implementation or reversing prior administrations’ actions, executive orders remain a potent symbol of presidential authority in the United States.