Final answer:
The president's issuance of a directive on immigration is an example of an executive order, which is a directive from the President that has the force of law within the executive branch without need for congressional approval.
Step-by-step explanation:
The president of the United States issues a directive on immigration. This is an example of a legal protection originating from executive order.
An executive order is a directive issued by the President to the executive branch of the government, having the force of law, without needing the approval of Congress. Presidents have used executive orders to direct a range of policies and actions, including on immigration. Notable instances of executive orders in history include the Emancipation Proclamation and desegregation of the armed forces. These orders can reorganize parts of the executive branch, direct how laws should be enforced, or establish new policies and initiatives.
The legitimacy of executive orders stems from the President's role to 'take care that the laws be faithfully executed,' as per the Constitution, but they are not without controversy. Some executive orders have been consequential and at times contested in courts, highlighting the balance of power within the branches of government.