Congress and National Security Policy
The Constitution provides that responsibility for foreign and defense policy be divided between the executive and legislative branches, and there has been a struggle in this area between the president and Congress for the more than two hundred years of our history. Over the last 75 years a series of expansionist executives and passive Congresses has resulted in a situation in which presidential power seems to have substantially eclipsed congressional power in this arena.
Congress has periodically attempted to regain some of its power in the national security area, and the ways in which Congress influences national security policy continue to evolve.
This seminar will examine:
- The constitutional basis of congressional authority
- The evolution of congressional authority over national security policy
- Current state of congressional power in the national security arena
Research Seminars typically meet four times for two-hour sessions, over the course of approximately 12 weeks. The first meeting date is published on the registration schedule, with the remaining meetings determined during the first class at times that are most convenient for the largest number of participants.
NOTE: Some sessions may be offered in an online format. If a session is indicated as an online option expect class meetings to be conducted in a live virtual format (generally over Zoom) with mandatory attendance. Participants will receive detailed course information with syllabus and online access details approximately a week before the start date.
Dates:
May 7, 2025 (first class meeting) ***ONLINE SESSION***
November 19, 2025 (first class meeting)
Tuition: $1,400
