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.
4,605 Articles
When the Abnormal Becomes Typical: Clinging to Memories of Normalcy Three Years into the Trump Administration
"Three years ago tonight, I took one last look back at the White House, lit brilliantly against the night sky, as I walked out the front gates onto Pennsylvania Avenue. It’s…
Congress Needs a “Rocket Docket” for Its Disputes With the President
A rocket docket could have prevented many of the abuses seen during the Trump administration, would reduce the likelihood of future abuses, and will enhance Congress’ ability…
The U.S.-Taliban Accord: Can the Afghan Government Rise to the Occasion?
Intra-Afghan talks are set to start March 10, leaving little time for the Afghan government to organize a negotiation team, even though they've had months to prepare.
What to Watch For in White House’s Annual Report on Use of Military Force
The report is due Sunday, March 1, and here are the key legal and policy issues to keep a sharp eye on.
Norm-Skepticism in Cyberspace? Counter-Factual and Counterproductive
Leading expert on international law and cyber responds to statement by Chief of US Naval Operations, Admiral Mike Gilday on international norms in cyberspace.
After Soleimani Killing, Iran and Its Proxies Recalibrate in Iraq
Understanding the motivations and capabilities of leading Iranian-backed militia units is vital for an effective US and Iraqi response to likely violence in the coming months.
The President’s War on Intelligence: Yes, It’s Worse Than You Think
The delayed cost of the president’s war on intelligence will be measured in terms of the steps backward that the U.S. is taking to pursue genuine intelligence reform, as it did…
The FBI and Apple Redux
It remains to be seen how this new clash will resolve itself, but the stakes have only increased for both sides.
As Trump Returns from India, Others in U.S. Must Press Modi on Rights in Kashmir and Across the Country
It is critical that a broad and diverse group of powerful actors in the United States not ignore the Indian government’s turn toward authoritarianism.
Congress Speaks: Trump Currently Has No Authority to Launch War with Iran
The House and Senate have passed resolutions that say President Trump has no authority to take the country to war against Iran.
Congress Is Ready for FISA Reform — Will the House Judiciary Committee Rise to the Occasion?
In the next 24 hours, the House Judiciary Committee has a unique opportunity to seriously reform FISA surveillance powers.
Let the Rule of Law Rule Law Enforcement: Reflections on the Current Attorney General’s Tenure
A former Acting Attorney General who earlier served with Bill Barr in the H.W. Bush administration writes scathing critique of Barr.