The use of executive orders in the United States has been a key tool for presidents to implement policy changes, bypassing the often slow-moving legislative process. From Franklin D. Roosevelt to Joe Biden, the use of executive orders has been a hotly debated topic, with critics arguing that it bypasses the will of the people and the constitution, while proponents argue that it is a necessary tool to address pressing issues.
Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, was known for his extensive use of executive orders to combat the Great Depression and expand the federal government’s role in the economy. In his first 100 days in office, he issued a staggering 99 executive orders, including the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps and the National Industrial Recovery Act. Many of his executive orders were controversial, with critics accusing him of overreaching his authority, but they were instrumental in shaping the New Deal and pulling the country out of the economic crisis.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and executive orders have continued to be a critical tool for presidents to enact policy changes. Barack Obama, for example, issued 276 executive orders during his two terms in office, addressing issues ranging from immigration to climate change. His most well-known executive order was the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which provided temporary relief to undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children.
Donald Trump, on the other hand, also made extensive use of executive orders during his time in office, with many aimed at reversing Obama-era policies. His executive orders covered a wide range of issues, including immigration, healthcare, and environmental regulations, and often sparked controversy and legal challenges.
Now, with the inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States, the use of executive orders has once again come into the spotlight. Biden wasted no time in signing a flurry of executive orders, addressing issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racial equity. One of his most notable executive orders was rejoining the Paris Climate Agreement, which had been a key campaign promise.
The use of executive orders has been a controversial topic throughout US history, with critics arguing that it circumvents the checks and balances of the government and centralizes power in the hands of the president. However, proponents argue that it is a necessary tool for addressing urgent issues when Congress is deadlocked or slow to act.
Regardless of one’s stance on the topic, the use of executive orders is likely to continue to be a critical tool for presidents to implement their policy priorities. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the debate over executive orders and their impact on the functioning of the US government will remain a contentious issue for years to come.