Tuesday, December 28, 2010

If there is collision between the president and Congress, can Congress restrain the president in foreign policy making?

It would depend on the specific issue, but there are ways that Congress can restrain the President in foreign policy issues. One very effective way would be to simply refuse to fund the policy, at least if it has the potential to be expensive. Congress would hesitate to do this, however, as Congress runs the risk of being blamed for the policy's failure.


If the president's policy could be interpreted by Congress as "a high crime or misdemeanor," Congress could begin impeachment procedures. Two presidents have been impeached (Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton) although neither was convicted and removed.


Any foreign policy program that required an action from Congress in the form of a bill could also be killed in Congressional committees and subcommittees. It may never get to the Congressional floor for voting.


However, in at least one important foreign policy area - the extension of diplomatic recognition to a foreign country - Congress plays no role. That is at the sole descretion of the president.

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