Lesson 3 - Commander in Chief Flashcards

Study Notes

Commander in Chief

The Constitution lacks detailed definitions of the Commander in Chief's powers, allowing presidents to claim extensive powers for national defense and wartime actions.
Presidents can deploy federal troops to manage domestic unrest and provide assistance during natural disasters.

Power to Make War

Congress holds the authority to declare war and finance military actions, which serves as a limit on presidential power.
Despite this, presidents have often engaged military forces without formal declarations of war.

Lead Up to War Powers Act

The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution allowed LBJ to commit forces to Vietnam without a formal war declaration; this led to concerns over presidential power abuse.

War Powers Act

Enacted to curb presidential military actions without Congressional approval, preventing troop commitment beyond 60 days.
Nixon's veto was overridden, but the Act has not significantly altered presidential military engagement.

Military Operations and Strategies

The president holds responsibility for military policy and strategy, although military leaders manage day-to-day operations.
The president receives regular briefings from military and national security officials on global threats.

Shadow Wars

Conducted secretly through special operations, private contractors, and drones targeting terrorists in regions like Pakistan and Yemen.
Considered a more cost-effective and low-risk alternative to traditional military conflicts.

Examples of Shadow Wars

Initiated by Bush post-9/11 and expanded under Obama, with agencies like the CIA executing high-profile operations, including the killing of Osama bin Laden.

Presidency in Times of War

War periods typically grant presidents enhanced powers, both domestically and internationally, with Congress often supporting expanded authority.

Presidency in Times of War: FDR

FDR mobilized Congress for unprecedented control over the economy, including price controls and rationing for war production.

Presidency in Times of War: Bush

Following 9/11, Bush expanded executive powers through the Patriot Act, facilitating increased surveillance and preventative measures against terrorism, and established the Department of Homeland Security.

Chief Diplomat

The president directs U.S. foreign policy and has the authority to negotiate treaties and executive agreements, although these actions are subject to limitations.

Treaties

The president negotiates treaties that require a two-thirds Senate approval to take effect, emphasizing the clause of checks and balances.

Congress Enacting Foreign Policy Legislation - Diplomatic Resolutions

Congress can influence foreign policy through funding restrictions and passing non-binding resolutions.

Presidential Advantage over Congress in Foreign Policy

The president's access to classified information and ability to make swift decisions enhances their capacity to influence foreign policy compared to Congress.

Executive Agreements

The president can enter into executive agreements that do not require Senate consent, which can address urgent foreign relations matters.

Recognition of Foreign Governments

The president decides on official recognition of foreign governments, impacting diplomatic relations and foreign policy effectiveness.

Description

Explore the powers and responsibilities of the President as Commander in Chief through these flashcards. Learn about the constitutional implications and historical arguments surrounding this vital role in national defense and military operations. Great for understanding the executive branch's influence on foreign policy.