Separation of Powers

Unlike a parliamentary system of government, the U.S. constitutional system permits the U.S. Congress a fairly substantial role in foreign policy. Under the Constitution's Separation of Powers, the Congress and the President are co-equals when it comes to representing two of the three branches of government. While the support of Congress is not required in many matters of foreign policy, presidents understand they have a much better chance of succeeding with than without Congressional support. The power of Congress to influence foreign policy is made up of formal and informal powers, which this analysis will now review.

The role played by Congress in influencing foreign policy is not felt through any one method or means. Formally, the Constitution mandates that the Senate has the power to approve or reject all treaties the President negotiates with foreign nations. The Senate must also confirm senior foreign policy officials and ambassadors to foreign nations. Congress h

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