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.