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.

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4,601 Articles

Rep. Jordan’s Dangerous New Panel is Nothing Like the Church Committee

The 1970’s era probe of executive branch intelligence abuse was honest oversight that spurred improvements benefiting the American people.
Pro-Trump supporters storm the U.S. Capitol following a rally with President Donald Trump on January 6, 2021 in Washington, DC.

Do State Laws Block Insurrectionists from Office?

The next two years are likely to see a test of what may turn out to be the most legally consequential recommendation—other than the suggestion of criminal charges—made by the…
Supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump fly a U.S. flag with a symbol from the group QAnon as they gather outside the U.S. Capitol January 06, 2021 in Washington, DC.

Antisemitism and Threats to American Democracy

"Effectively addressing the risks posed by rising antisemitism and its often complex relationship with other forms of hate and anti-democratic movements will require a comprehensive…
The seal of the Treasury Department is seen on the Treasury Department Building in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 18, 2023.

The Treasury Department’s Material Support Carveouts are a Welcomed First Step – But Congress Must Act to Create a Sustainable Fix

Congress needs to pass legislation to expand vital protections for NGOs delivering life-saving humanitarian assistance.
US Representative Jim Jordan speaks at the House of Representatives

Decoding the “Select Subcommittee on Weaponization of the Federal Government”

How Jim Jordan's select subcommittee plans to impede those who are investigating the true weaponization of the government by former President Trump.
US Attorney General Alberto Gonzales raises his right hand at a committee meeting.

Could Biden Face Charges? The Alberto Gonzales Precedent Says Not

The Gonzales declination appears to be a precedent that will weigh heavily in favor of DOJ closing its Biden investigation without a charge.
Donald Trump stands in front of a podium. The space behind him is darkened.

Tracker: Evidence of Trump’s Knowledge and Involvement in Retaining Mar-a-Lago Documents

"We have compiled a comprehensive account of the publicly available information."
wide shot of the House Chamber

Gutting Congress’ Ethics Office Was a Disaster – and an Opportunity

The House "gutting their own ethics regulator with their first vote in Congress was so obviously unethical, so clearly about maintaining power and avoiding accountability, that…

Yellen’s Trip to Africa: A Chance to Reset US-Africa Relations

The Treasury secretary's visit could spur action on climate finance, inclusive global governance, and debt relief.
A photo shows the logo of the Turkish Halkbank on December 2, 2017 in Istanbul.

Expert Recap and Analysis of Halkbank Oral Argument at the Supreme Court

A breakdown of the key issues in a wide ranging oral argument on foreign sovereign immunity in criminal cases.
A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook helicopter takes off at sunset while transporting American troops out of a remote combat outpost known as RLZ on May 25, 2021 near the Turkish border in northeastern Syria.

The Limits of Remote Warfare: Aligning Values with Interests

The Biden administration should be more circumspect in its reliance on lethal force as a foreign policy tool outside of traditional war zones.
Vice President Dick Cheney shakes hands with Vice President-elect Joe Biden, who is holding a green folder.

Vice Presidents and Rules Governing Classified National Security Information

Uncovering an historical episode involving Vice President Cheney that cast doubt on status of vice presidents and classified information system - with a call for Congress to close…
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