Congress

Just Security’s expert authors offer analysis of U.S. Congress’ role in national security, foreign affairs, the rule of law, and rights. Coverage includes analysis and informational resources related to the legislative process, oversight and investigations of the executive branch, and major debates on the separation of powers and Congress’ constitutional role.

Highlights:

Top shot of Pamela Bondi before the Senate Judiciary Committee

What the Senate Judiciary Committee Should Ask A.G. Bondi on Drug Cartel Strikes

Annotated questions Congress should be asking about U.S. military strikes on suspected drug traffickers in the Caribbean.
A mother walks with her daughters outside a building

Global Fragility Act 2.0? Amid a Possible Bipartisan Revival, a Chance to Make U.S. Peace Efforts More Effective

If the administration seizes this moment, GFA 2.0 could help the U.S. prevent costly wars and compete effectively with rivals abroad.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (L) sits across from Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani (R)

Some Questions About Trump’s Order Pledging to Defend Qatar’s Security

Trump's Executive Order on Qatar raises a number of important legal and policy questions that merit careful consideration by Congress and the public.
The Just Security Podcast Cover Image

The Just Security Podcast: Murder on the High Seas Part II — What We Know about U.S. Vessel Strikes One Month In

Tess Bridgeman and Rachel Goldbrenner are joined by Rebecca Ingber and Brian Finucane to analyze the facts, the law, and implications of U.S. killings in the Caribbean.
The US Navy warship USS Sampson (DDG 102) docks at the Amador International Cruise Terminal in Panama City

Legal Flaws in the Trump Administration’s Notice to Congress on “Armed Conflict” with Drug Cartels

The Trump administration’s “armed conflict” justification, however, is groundless.
Binders of executive orders stacked on a desk.

Collection: Just Security’s Coverage of Trump Administration Executive Actions

Coverage of key developments, including in concise “What Just Happened” expert explainers, legal and policy analysis, and more. Check back frequently for updates.
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2,443 Articles
A scale in front of shipping containers

Rethinking IEEPA Accountability and Oversight

Congress can take steps now to revise IEEPA & strengthen accountability & oversight when the executive branch leverages U.S. economic powers.
US Marines' Lockheed Martin F35-B jets arrive in formation to José Aponte de la Torre Airport

Murder by Drone: The Legal and Moral Stakes of the Caribbean Strikes

If allowed to go unchecked, the Caribbean strikes could encourage additional unlawful executions by the United States and other leaders.
The Just Security Podcast

The Just Security Podcast: What Just Happened – CISA and the Fate of U.S. Cybersecurity

As CISA faces expiration, former FBI official Cynthia Kaiser joins David Aaron to discuss its importance and highlight the risks of failing to reauthorize it. 
The US Navy warship USS Sampson (DDG 102) docks at the Amador International Cruise Terminal in Panama City on September 02, 2025. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on September 1, 2025, that eight US military vessels with 1,200 missiles were targeting his country, which he declared to be in a state of "maximum readiness to defend" itself. (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP via Getty Images)

Asserting a License to Kill: Why the Caribbean Strike is a Dangerous Departure from the “War on Terror”

An absence of credible legal basis for the Caribbean strike suggests the Trump admin is asserting a prerogative to kill outside the law.
Security padlock and circuit board

The Next Cyber Breach Will Not Wait: Why Congress Must Reauthorize CISA 2015

Passing the WIMWIG Act to renew CISA 2015 is vital to defend the foundations of U.S. cybersecurity and technological superiority.
The Just Security Podcast

The Just Security Podcast: Sen. Elissa Slotkin on a New Vision for American National Security

The Senator joins Tess Bridgeman and Ryan Goodman for a wide-ranging discussion on the future of national security and foreign policy.
The Just Security Podcast

The Just Security Podcast: Murder on the High Seas? What You Need to Know about the U.S. Strike on the Caribbean Vessel

Rebecca Ingber and Brian Finucane join Tess Bridgeman to unpack what you need to know about the U.S. strike on a purported drug trafficking vessel in the Caribbean.
Visualization of a quantum chip

A Strategic Bet to Advance America’s Quantum Leadership

By prioritizing quantum sensors, the Trump administration can catalyze defense breakthroughs and secure the U.S. lead in the quantum era.
Granite being mined in Ukraine

Washington Balks While Beijing Builds: Reauthorizing the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation

In the U.S.-China contest for global leadership, Congress can determine whether the DFC remains on the sidelines or becomes a central player.
The US Navy warship USS Sampson (DDG 102) docks at the Amador International Cruise Terminal in Panama City on September 02, 2025. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on September 1, 2025, that eight US military vessels with 1,200 missiles were targeting his country, which he declared to be in a state of "maximum readiness to defend" itself. (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP via Getty Images)

Legal Issues Raised by a Lethal U.S. Military Attack in the Caribbean

The Trump administration’s extraordinary lethal attack on a purported drug smuggling vessel – and its vow that it is the start of a campaign – raise significant legal issues.
The Ukrainian and Taiwanese flags

A Security Guarantee for Ukraine? Look to the Taiwan Relations Act

The United States and its allies can use the Taiwan model to make post-war Ukraine more secure without writing checks they cannot cash.
Visualization of cybersecurity

Unlocking Justice: A Policy Roadmap for Victims of Spyware

To introduce accountability for cyberattacks, Congress should make it clear that U.S. courts are the right venue for spyware cases.
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