Who Has the Power to Implement Foreign Policy?

Presidential Powers Military Powers – Commander of the military. – Can send troops out for a limited time Negotiating treaties Executive Agreement – the President and the leader of a foreign nation come to a mutual agreement. Appointing ambassadors (representatives) Receive ambassadors from other countries

Presidential Powers Diplomatic recognition – recognize or establish official relationships with a foreign government. Refuse to recognize a government who is considered unfriendly or dangerous.

Department of State A part of the President’s cabinet (Executive Branch) Responsible for carrying out U.S. foreign policy Secretary of State reports directly to the President – Advises the president – Supervises the activities of U.S. ambassadors and other representatives.

Department of Defense Also a part of the President’s Cabinet Secretary of Defense reports directly to the President Provides the president with military information like – troop movement – placement of bases – weapon development

Other Executive Branch Agencies Department of Agriculture (other Cabinet departments) CIA – Central Intelligence Agency – gathers info about military and political trends in various countries. NSC – National Security Council – created to coordinate U.S. military and foreign policy AID – Agency for International Development – provides money for food, fuel, medical supplies, etc.

Power of Congress The Committee on International Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House Committee on International Relations make foreign-policy recommendations to Congress and the president.

Approval Powers Senate approves all treaties between the United States and other countries with a 2/3 vote. Congress also may approve an executive agreement which has the same effect as a treaty. Congress has the power to declare war

The War Powers Act – limits the power of the president to send troops abroad without the approval of Congress. Congress must approve all spending of public funds. This allows Congress to influence foreign affairs.

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