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.
2,459 Articles

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.

The Soleimani Strike and War Powers
Key Legal Questions, With Preview of a New Research Database

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…

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.

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…

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…

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."

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.

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."

Federal Criminal Offenses and the Impeachment of Donald J. Trump
Experts conclude President's conduct involves multiple federal crimes.

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…