The Electoral College has served as a vehicle for American democracy since the country’s birth over two centuries ago. Yet, not many people (including Americans) understand how the Electoral College works. Below is a quick... Learn more »
Act – A bill passed in identical Form by both houses of Congress and signed into law by the President or enacted over his veto. Also called a Public Law. Amendment – A proposal by... Learn more »
Forms of Congressional Action Under the US Constitution, Congress initiates legislation. Legislation passed by Congress must be signed by the President to become law. Congressional action is usually undertaken in one of four major forms:... Learn more »
Authorization versus Appropriations Legislation Theory: In theory, Congress should follow a two-step legislative process (authorization and appropriation) that produces two separate laws governing foreign assistance. Foreign assistance authorization legislation – usually referred to as the... Learn more »
The US Constitution contains ambiguities regarding the roles of Congress and the President in making foreign policy. In practice, strong Presidents and legislators have often asserted their prerogatives in this area at the expense of... Learn more »
