When a president takes office, they often sign executive orders soon after inauguration, sometimes on Inauguration Day itself.
An executive order is a presidential action that directs federal agencies on how to operate. It carries the effect of law provided it aligns with constitutional powers. Executive orders can also amend or revoke prior orders.
In addition to executive orders, other presidential actions can include memorandums, and proclamations.
How many executive orders have recent presidents signed?
The 10 presidents since 1969 signed an average of 269 executive orders while in office. Two-term presidents averaged 328, while single-term presidents averaged 216.
Jimmy Carter, a single-term president, signed the most executive orders per year, averaging 80. Barack Obama, who served two terms, signed the fewest per year: 35.
Two-term President Ronald Reagan signed the most executive orders, signing 381 from 1981 to 1989.
Single-term President Joe Biden signed 160 executive orders from 2021 to 2025, which is fewer than other recent presidents.
How many executive orders has each president signed on their first day?
The White House reports that President Trump signed 26 executive orders on January 20, 2025. In 2021, on the first day of his first term, he signed one.
Prior to then, the most executive orders signed on a first day was former President Joe Biden, who signed nine executive orders on his first day.
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Federal Register
Executive Orders
