Executive orders are directives issued by the President to manage the operations of the federal government, differing from legislation passed by Congress. While legislation requires a majority vote and can involve public debate and amendment, executive orders can be enacted unilaterally, allowing for quick action on policy issues. These orders can have significant impact, especially in areas not explicitly covered by existing laws. However, executive orders are subject to judicial review and can be overturned or modified by subsequent administrations, illustrating the dynamic nature of executive power.