In matters of formal powers in the domain of foreign policy,
Group of answer choices
a. all nations, including the U.S., are subject to oversight by the United Nations.
b. Congress is entirely in charge.
c. decisions are delegated to experts in the bureaucracy.
d. the president is entirely in charge.
e. the president and Congress share power.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is e. the president and Congress share power.
In the context of U.S. foreign policy, the Constitution divides formal powers between the president and Congress. Both branches play significant roles in determining foreign policy, although their responsibilities and powers differ. The president is designated as the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces and has the authority to negotiate treaties and conduct diplomacy, making them the primary figure in managing foreign relations. However, these powers are balanced by Congress’s constitutional powers.
Congress has the power to declare war, approve treaties (by a two-thirds vote in the Senate), and control government spending, including foreign aid and military funding. Additionally, Congress can regulate commerce with foreign nations, an essential aspect of foreign policy. The system of checks and balances ensures that the president cannot act unilaterally in foreign policy matters without oversight or limitation from Congress.
Moreover, decisions related to foreign policy often involve a combination of presidential authority and congressional input. For example, presidents frequently negotiate treaties or executive agreements, but they cannot make these decisions without Senate approval, especially for formal treaties. Congress also plays a key role in shaping foreign policy through legislation, such as imposing sanctions on foreign countries or setting policies related to international trade.
While the president has significant influence and flexibility in foreign policy, especially in times of crisis, the shared powers between the executive and legislative branches ensure that both play an active role in shaping U.S. foreign relations. This division of responsibility helps to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power over foreign policy decisions.