Foreign Policy Authorities in Congress and the President

Constitutional Powers

• Congressional Powers:

  • Declare war
  • Provide for common defense
  • Raise and support armies
  • Power over foreign commerce
  • Senate's role in approving nominations for:
    • Cabinet officers
    • Ambassadorial appointments
    • Senior military officials
  • Power to appropriate funds
  • General oversight of government operations

• Presidential Powers:

  • Nominate cabinet officers and ambassadors
  • Authority to negotiate treaties with Senate consent

Ways Congress Influences Foreign Policy

1. Substantive Legislation:

   • Directly dictate foreign policy content
   • Example: Using the power of the purse to fund or not fund programs

2. Procedural Legislation:

   • Indirect impact by changing decision-making in the executive branch
   • Example: Creating new offices in the State Department focusing on specific issues

3. Shaping Public Opinion:

   • Through hearings, debates, and media appearances

Historical Context

• Overlapping Authorities: Disputes date back to George Washington's presidency
• Ebb and Flow of Power:
  • 19th Century: Period of congressional government
  • Post-WWII: Rise of the imperial presidency
  • Post-Vietnam: Criticism and legislative action against imperial presidency

Modern Dynamics

• Presidential Influence:

  • Stronger since WWII
  • Public support for strong presidential leadership

• Congressional Influence:

  • Greatest when presidential action requires congressional consent
  • Example: 2015 Iran sanctions where Congress had leverage

• Presidential Independence:

  • Presidents have acted without Congress, using military force
  • Example: War Powers Resolution of 1973, often ineffective

Good or Bad: Conflict Between President and Congress?

• Not inherently good or bad
• Collaboration doesn't guarantee successful policy
• Disagreement may reflect a country not ready for certain policies