Checks and Balance newsletter: Don’t count on Congress to restrain Donald Trump
In a recent analysis by Charlotte Howard, the New York bureau chief, the focus is on President Biden’s ongoing efforts to expand the United States’ military engagement capabilities, particularly in the context of global conflicts and national security. The article highlights the delicate balance between executive power and congressional authority, showcasing how Biden’s administration is navigating this complex landscape amid a backdrop of increasing geopolitical tensions. The president’s inclination to leverage war powers reflects a broader trend of executive overreach that has been observed in recent administrations, raising significant concerns among lawmakers and experts about the implications for democratic oversight.
Howard discusses specific instances where the Biden administration has sought to extend military operations, including the ongoing situations in Ukraine and the Middle East. The president’s push for additional military aid and intervention strategies has met with a mixed response from Congress. Many lawmakers express a reluctance to challenge the president, fearing political backlash or being perceived as weak on national defense. This hesitancy is compounded by a general trend of increasing polarization in U.S. politics, where bipartisan agreement on military actions has become increasingly rare. Examples provided in the article illustrate how Congress has often deferred to the executive branch, allowing for a significant expansion of military operations without formal declarations of war, thereby raising questions about accountability and the future of U.S. military engagements.
The article underscores the pivotal role of public opinion and the shifting attitudes towards military intervention. With a war-weary populace and growing skepticism about foreign entanglements, lawmakers are caught between supporting the president’s agenda and addressing the concerns of their constituents. Howard emphasizes the importance of establishing clear boundaries for military actions and the necessity for Congress to reclaim its constitutional role in authorizing military force. As the Biden administration continues to navigate these tumultuous waters, the implications of its actions could have lasting effects on U.S. foreign policy and the foundational principles of checks and balances that govern American democracy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J4VjqpswWo
Charlotte Howard, our New York bureau chief, on the president’s efforts to stretch America’s war powers—and lawmakers’ reluctance to stop him
