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.
4,597 Articles
How the KKK Produced the Department of Justice
The Department of Justice was founded specifically to counter domestic terrorism. A new law to better prosecute today’s domestic terrorists and more effectively deter people…
Regional Conflict in the Middle East and the Limitations of the War Powers Resolution
The involvement of U.S. armed forces in hostilities in this tinderbox—without congressional authorization—should spur the legislative branch into action, including to enact…
The “Ghost Budget”: How America Pays for Endless War
The "Ghost Budget" has enabled successive administrations to prosecute wars with limited congressional oversight and public debate.
Advances in AI Increase Risks of Government Social Media Monitoring
New AI tools are exacerbating problems with social media surveillance.
Congress Can Curb Abuse of the Presidential Pardon Power
Congress can impose consequences for presidents abusing the pardon power by increasing oversight and imposing transparency requirements.
The US Can — and Must — Counter Russian Influence Undermining Kyrgyzstan’s Democratic Progress
The latest sign of backsliding is a draft "foreign agents" law modeled after one that gutted civil society in Russia.
U.S. Policymakers’ Lessons from Yemen for Gaza
Former Obama officials write: If the White House is serious about protecting Gaza’s civilians, they need to do more than urge that Israel adhere to the law. They must make clear…
The Office of Legal Counsel Discloses List of Classified Opinions in Important Step for Transparency
The disclosure of the titles means that journalists, researchers, and others can now request the Office of Legal Counsel opinions themselves, opening important new avenues for…
National Security Carve-Outs Undermine AI Regulations
The FBI and DHS should independently evaluate AI systems, mitigate harm, train staff, consult with stakeholders, and offer recourse for harm.
The Just Security Podcast: Disinformation and Threats Ahead of the 2024 U.S. Elections
The 2024 election is a stress test for American democracy: Are officials and social media platforms ready for a barrage of disinformation?
Senator Sanders’ New Resolution Could Force U.S. to Confront Any Complicity in Civilian Harm in Gaza
The Sanders resolution offers a pathway to consider the role U.S. weapons are playing in devastating harm to civilians in Gaza and debate the wisdom and consequences of continuing…
Trump’s Stated Goals for the U.S. Intelligence Community: Assessing the Impact
Former CIA and FBI officials assess the impact on national security in former President Trump's stated plans for the intelligence community.