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.

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2,400 Articles
An overhead view of the Pentagon building in Washington, DC.

Hegseth Promises to Save the Pentagon Billions of Dollars. Here’s What Actually Could.

If the Trump administration wants to end wasteful Pentagon spending, it should reform the many faltering weapons programs and review its contractor ecosystem.
Bitcoin cryptocurrency on the U.S. flag

How Congress Can Stop the Looming Crypto Disaster

Legislative and administrative accommodation of the crypto industry pose fundamental challenges to control over money and credit.

The U.S.-Ukraine Agreement: Legality and Transparency

The recently announced mineral deal is likely a lawful “sole executive agreement” that the president need not submit to Congress, but subsequent implementing agreements are…
The U.S. Supreme Court building at dawn in Washington, D.C., U.S. Photographer: Samuel Corum/Bloomberg

The Supreme Court’s Next 100 Days: Understanding the Passive-Aggressive Virtues (and Vices)

The Supreme Court's pushback during the first 100 days of the Trump administration is striking. What to look for in the next 100.
The three diplomats stand behind a desk where they have been signing the agreement. Behind them are a portrait on a blue wall and an array of two each of their three flags.

Secretary of State Rubio’s Reorganization Plan Could Offer a Chance to Rescue U.S. Foreign Assistance — If He’s Smart About It

After months demolishing foreign aid, the Trump administration could still regroup for something worthy of America’s values and interests.
Tank and soldiers shown on Mexico border

The New “National Defense Area” at the Southern Border: What You Need to Know

NSPM-4 creates a military area that is twice the size of Washington, D.C. and expands the military’s role in stopping cross-border migration.
Image of the Capital overlayed with digital color blocks

Beyond Data Rescue: Building Structural Safeguards for Federal Data Preservation

Disappearance of vital resources from government websites exposes a fragile ecosystem in which accountability mechanisms have broken down.
The office of the law firm Perkins Coie is seen on April 10, 2025 in Washington, DC.

No, the President Cannot Enforce the Law-Firm Deals

"First, are these agreements legally enforceable? Second, if not, what principled reasons do the firms have for keeping their part of these bargains?"
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.
A man comes out of the Voice of America (VOA) building on March 17, 2025

Justice Department Fails to Address Central Point in VOA Case

A federal judge halted the shutdown of VOA, citing violations of administrative law and congressional authority, not press freedom.
In this handout photo provided by the Salvadoran government, members of the Salvadoran army stand guard at the gates of the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) at CECOT on March 16, 2025 in Tecoluca, El Salvador.

Deportation to CECOT: The Constitutional Prohibition on Punishment Without Charge or Trial

Sending migrants to El Salvador’s CECOT prison raises grave constitutional concerns under the Fifth and Sixth Amendments.
Proposed New Org Chart, Department of State

What Just Happened: The Trump Administration’s Reorganization of the State Department – and How We Got Here

The Trump administration’s proposed reorganization of the State Department is not just a reshuffle. It’s a realignment of diplomatic priorities that seems set to constrain…
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