Commander in Chief - Who Holds the Reins?

Authors

William Baude
Curtis A. Bradley
Austin Carson

Publication Date

8-12-2025

Streaming Media

Abstract

What is the scope of the President’s power over war and foreign policy? Are there any internal constraints – legal, political, institutional – on the President’s behavior toward other countries? Does the executive’s ability to operate in secret allow it to evade these potential constraints? Have these dynamics changed over time, and if so, why?

Recommended Citation

Baude, William; Bradley, Curtis A.; and Carson, Austin, "Commander in Chief - Who Holds the Reins?" (2025). Battle of the Branches. 3.
https://chicagounbound.uchicago.edu/battle_of_the_branches/3