Executive Branch
Just Security’s expert authors provide analysis of the U.S. executive branch related to national security, rights, and the rule of law. Analysis and informational resources focus on the executive branch’s powers and their limits, and the actions of the president, administrative agencies, and federal officials.
4,757 Articles
How a New Administration—and a New Congress—Can Fix Prepublication Review: A Roadmap for Reform
The new administration, and the new Congress, should act more decisively to reform this broken system.
How to Fight Truth Decay: Protect the Truth Tellers
What better way of protecting the truth than by offering a safe haven for journalists who risk their lives to inform us.
On Accountability and the Next Presidency, Starting With the Cabinet
To truly “Build Back Better,” as Biden promised, he must not nominate, appoint, or otherwise hire anyone for his administration who has seriously abused power.
Getting the T’s and C’s Right: The Lessons of Intelligence Reform
"We have been part of every iteration of the ODNI and have seen the highs and lows, the good and the bad, as the IC has remade itself. We have learned valuable—and painful—lessons..."
Why Biden May Try to Return to Iran Nuclear Deal Before Renegotiating It
With only five months between President-Elect Biden’s inauguration and Iranian presidential elections in June, in which hardliners are likely to prevail, a clean U.S. return…
The Next Attorney General’s Allegiance Must Be to the Rule of Law
The key credentials of the next AG should be significant prosecutorial experience at the federal or state level and an abiding fidelity to the apolitical administration of justice.
Not a Coup at DOD: How Acting Sec. Miller’s Reorganization May Improve Special Ops Oversight
"The key question is whether Miller’s move will actually increase civilian oversight of Special Operations Forces."
Mali: The “Good” Coup d’État?
Will the military, having violated democratic norms, work with a civilian-led government to bring the country back to rule of law and peaceful development?
Trump’s Impact on Nuclear Proliferation
On the need to review Trump associates' secret bargaining in nuclear energy sector. Not just a question of accountability. But of continuing vulnerabilities in national security.
US-Opposed Probe of Colombia’s Uribe Is Essential Step in Road to Peace
Uribe was released under pressure last month, but attempts to thwart transitional justice will only undermine efforts to sustain the 2016 peace agreement.
Revisiting the Office of Legal Counsel’s Override Opinion
A critical analysis of 1989 OLC Opinion that would allow President to use force in violation of UN Charter and without Congressional support.
How to Restore Ethics to the U.S. Department of State
The task demands accountability for the ethical scandals that have occurred at State during the Trump administration and a public commitment to rebuilding the infrastructure, including…