Spring 2025 POSI 2320 Test 4 and Final Exam Review

Congressional Role in Foreign Policy

• Senate Confirmations:

  • The Senate has the power to confirm or reject treaties negotiated by the President.

• House and Senate Committees:

  • Both houses of Congress have committees that oversee various aspects of foreign policy.

• Declaring War:

  • The Constitution grants Congress the authority to declare war.

• War Powers Resolution of 1973:

  • An attempt to require the President to consult with Congress before engaging in military action.

  • It aims to ensure shared responsibility for foreign military engagements.

• Allocating Funds:

  • Congress is responsible for allocating funds for military operations, intelligence agencies, and other foreign policy-related offices and departments.

Presidential Role in Foreign Policy

• Commander in Chief:

  • The President leads the armed forces and directs military operations.

• Working with Congress:

  • While the President holds significant power, collaboration with Congress is required for some foreign policy decisions.

• Negotiating Treaties:

  • The President has the authority to negotiate and sign treaties with foreign nations, subject to Senate approval.

• Setting the Foreign Policy Agenda:

  • The President utilizes both formal (legal) and informal powers (influence and persuasion) to shape U.S. foreign policy.

• Appointments:

  • The President appoints key foreign policy positions, including Secretaries of State, ambassadors, and heads of intelligence agencies.

• Growth of Presidential Power:

  • Since World War II, the executive branch's influence in foreign policy has increased significantly, making the President the most powerful actor in this domain.

Judicial Role in Foreign Policy

• Limited Involvement:

  • The courts have a limited role in foreign policy, engaging infrequently.

• Indirect Influence:

  • Some court decisions may indirectly impact foreign policy decisions.

• Dispute Resolution:

  • The judiciary may referee disputes between the state and federal governments, and between executive and legislative branches.

Role of Public Opinion in Foreign Policy

• General Apathy:

  • Americans often overlook foreign policy issues unless prompted by a crisis.

• Influence on Elections:

  • Significant foreign policy issues can sway public opinion and potentially affect election outcomes.