Of the Constitution’s many checks and balances, few have become as controversial and as consequential as the country’s war powers. Article I is clear in giving Congress the power to declare war and to federalize state militias. But Article II, section 2, names the President “Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several States, when called into the actual Service of the United States.” Although the framers ensured that a civilian would lead America’s armed forces, constitutional scholars have debated for years whether the position of Commander in Chief actually gives the President authority to open hostilities or whether it was merely a title the Founders conferred on the chief magistrate.7
Over the course of its inception who has a better track record with regards to the war efforts, congress or the executive branch? In the often contentious relationship regarding war powers, who has succeded more authority and who has kept its authority, Congress or the executive.
Below please find the formal instructions:
First, you can write an 8,000 word research paper on a topic approved by the program director. The final product should include a legislative history of the topic, including
previous legislative efforts, hearings, etc.
