Date of Award
8-1994
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Political Science
First Advisor
Dr. Chet Rogers
Second Advisor
Dr. Helenan Robin
Third Advisor
Dr. Peter Renstrom
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
This paper examines the executive-legislative relations on foreign policy formulation, debate, authorization, funding and implementation. The research shows that the founding fathers never intended one branch to totally control the "war powers." Inter-branch rivalry and conflict were intended.
The research establishes a pattern this inter-branch relationship has taken since the Constitutional Convention. This "pattern" clearly indicates the natural ability of the executive branch in handling foreign affairs especially those key events involving the use of force or where the potential for violence exists.
The paper also examines the surge of congressional authority (1970's) which attempted to apply restraint on what were considered foreign policy excesses by the executive. Historical practice and constitutional interpretation shows these are congressional overreactions, Particularly the War Powers Act of 1973, that now seriously impede effective foreign policy execution. These restrictions are unconstitutional and demonstrate that presidential prerogative should not be binded by congressional restraint.
Recommended Citation
Donaldson, Jay F., "American Foreign Policy: Constitutionality of Congressional Initiatives into Presidential Prerogative—Who Controls the War Powers?" (1994). Masters Theses. 5005.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/5005