POWER LINE: Trump’s political masterstroke. “As a political matter, Trump’s move looks like a masterstroke. Since the days of FDR, the public has always seemed to approve of presidents who act to ameliorate suffering while Congress diddles. A flurry of activity, even of the futile or potentially counterproductive kind, makes a president look energetic and caring. In this instance, Trump’s move might well force congressional Democrats to reach a deal. That outcome, too, would be a political win for the president.” Plus: “The obvious displeasure of The Washington Post is further evidence that Trump has made a smart political move.”
Related, from Josh Blackman: The Mechanics of President Trump’s Payroll Tax Deferral Memorandum.
Flashback: Obama’s Pen and Phone.
Related: Remembering U.S. v. Spawr Optical, in which a president revived an expired criminal statute by executive order. More here.