What is an executive order?

An executive order is a directive issued by the President of the United States that holds the force of law. This means that when a President signs an executive order, it can direct government operations, establish policies, or manage federal agencies without the need for Congressional approval. Executive orders allow the President to take immediate action on issues within the scope of executive power, addressing matters such as national security, public health, and administrative policies.

In the context of the choices provided, it is clear that the other options do not accurately describe an executive order. A law passed by Congress refers specifically to legislation approved by both houses of Congress and signed by the President, which is a different legislative process. A command issued by the Supreme Court pertains to judicial rulings or mandates rather than executive actions. Regulations set by state governors relate to state-level governance, while executive orders pertain specifically to the federal executive branch under the authority of the President.