Trump Administration Moves Quickly Through Executive Orders, Memorandums, and Presidential Proclamations
Since being sworn in on January 20, 2025, the President has moved quickly to advance his Administration’s vision and priorities. He has issued a staggering number
However, these actions all have constraints. Below we have provided a primer on what these actions can and cannot do.
Executive Orders – These are legally binding directives issued by the President of the United States to federal agencies, departments, or officials. Executive orders carry the force of law and are used to manage operations within the federal government. They are published in the *Federal Register* and must be based on the President’s constitutional authority or statutory delegation from Congress.
Presidential Memorandums – These are similar to executive orders but are typically less formal and do not have to be published in the *Federal Register* unless the President determines they should be. Memorandums are used to give guidance, direct specific actions by federal agencies, or make policy statements. They generally do not have the same level of legal weight as executive orders but can still influence government operations significantly.
Presidential Proclamations – These are official statements issued by the President that can either have legal effects (such as designating national holidays or public lands) or serve as ceremonial or symbolic declarations. Some proclamations, like those granting pardons or addressing trade restrictions, carry legal consequences, while others, such as recognizing awareness months, do not create enforceable policies.
Also, we have created a
fun explainer video that you can share to educate and inform your networks!
Meet The Author:
As Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs, I work to explain how actions on Capitol Hill can impact the self-employed. I love D.C. and have made my home in Capitol Hill, where I live with my husband and black Labrador, Coltrane. We love playing volleyball and softball on the National Mall.
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