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.

× Clear Filters
2,459 Articles
Heavy smoke billows following an airstrike on the western frontline of Raqa on July 17, 2017, during an offensive by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, a majority Kurdish and Arab alliance, to retake the city from Islamic State (IS) group fighters.

Civilian Casualties: A Case for U.S. Condolence Payments in Syria

The U.S. military acknowledges it unintentionally killed 40 civilians in a 2017 air strike, but rejects appeals to help those who survived.
Side by side photos of a Congressional document labeled, “H.J. Res. 542” and the remnants of the U.S. airstrike still on fire that killed Soleimani and al-Muhandis on Jan. 3, 2020 outside the Baghdad International Airport.

The Soleimani Strike and War Powers

Key Legal Questions, With Preview of a New Research Database
The Pentagon logo and an American flag are lit up in the briefing room of Pentagon in Arlington, VA.

The Missing Assistant Secretary of Defense and the Soleimani Strike

Government officials will be working around the clock in the coming days to keep Americans safe and manage the fallout. It’s highly unfortunate that one critical voice will be…

Letter to the Editor: The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and Trump’s Ukraine Venture

The Dec. 16, 2019 Just Security essays about federal criminal offenses and President Donald Trump’s impeachment were excellent and timely, but the one about his exposure…
A flag waves in front of the U.S. Capitol building.

The Senate Must Conduct an Impeachment Trial That Is Serious and Fair

The American people deserve an impeachment trial that is fair and serious. The Chief Justice and the members of the Senate should deliver one.
An employee at the Utah County Election office puts mail in ballots into a container to register the vote in the midterm elections on November 6, 2018 in Provo, Utah.

The Trump-Giuliani Election Plan: Manipulating Voters

The public debate has included frequent reference to the potential destructive effects: illegal foreign interference in a presidential election that damages America’s democracy…
The damaged interior of the hospital in which the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) medical charity operated is seen on October 13, 2015 following an air strike in the northern city of Kunduz.

Congress Expands Oversight of U.S. Payments for Civilian Deaths

The payments are among the only ways the U.S. military acknowledges and responds to civilian deaths or injuries in its operations, and previous reporting exposed significant gaps…
US Attorney General William Barr (L) and US President Donald Trump

A National Security Impeachment

"What this standoff also reveals is a deeper threat to our constitutional system, and a pathway forward for legislators to guard against abuses by this and future presidents."
A soldier sits in an U.S. Army helicopter as it flies outside of Camp Shorab on a flight to Camp Post on September 11, 2017 at Camp Shorab in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Hidden Gems: Civilian Casualties and Use of Force Reporting Provisions in the Annual Defense Bill

For all the ways that the NDAA falls short on various human rights issues, there are some bright spots that should not be overlooked.
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) takes questions during her weekly news conference on Capitol Hill December 12, 2019 in Washington, DC.

The House Should Pause Impeachment

"It’s better for the House and for the country to hit pause, and turn now to the courts for resolution."
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump walk to Marine One, departing from the White House on December 2, 2019 in Washington, DC.

Federal Criminal Offenses and the Impeachment of Donald J. Trump

Experts conclude President's conduct involves multiple federal crimes.
The Taedong river and city skyline of Pyongyang prior to the annual Pyongyang marathon on April 8, 2018.

Recent North Korea Sanctions Arrest Raises Questions About Free Speech Rights

Virgil Griffith, it’s safe to assume, did not have a happy Thanksgiving. On arriving at Los Angeles International Airport from abroad, he was arrested that day. An unsealed criminal…
1-12 of 2,459 items

DON'T MISS A THING. Stay up to date with Just Security curated newsletters: