"Executive Orders" are an elusive thing. First off, nothing in the Constitution specifically grants the right of executive order. The "take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed" clause is about as close as you get.
Secondly, for the most part (prior to the last couple Presidents), they've been directed at interenal executive offices, punishment being removal from office those that failed to follow them. And, unless specifically enumerated by Congress (i.e., they pass a bill that says, "and the President can alter this law by Exectuve Order"), the force of law behind executive orders is dubious. There is Supreme Court precedent that reinforces that fact that the Preisdent does not have the power to make law.
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'He who receives an idea from me, receives instruction himself without lessening mine; as he who lights his taper at mine, receives light without darkening me.'
-TJ
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