Congress US Natl Sec Policy

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Juris Doctor

As the Constitution’s Article I branch of government, Congress plays a critical role in the formulation, implementation, and oversight of U.S. national security policy. Nevertheless, this Congressional role is often insufficiently understood. This course, designed for individuals contemplating or pursuing careers in national security, will provide an in-depth understanding of Congress focused on an empirical assessment of its role related to national security policy. Students will evaluate Congress from theoretical, historical, and normative perspectives; however, the core of the course will be a study of the way things really work on Capitol Hill. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the Constitutional framework and what has been characterized as its “invitation to struggle for the privilege of directing American foreign policy.” Indeed, the struggle within Congress and the struggle between Congress and the executive branch for control of national security policy will serve as a major topic in this course. To better understand the actions of Congress in this struggle, students will analyze Congressional member demographics, the ways members organize their offices, their foreign policy perspectives, and the motivations and interests that influence decisions. Equipped with this knowledge, students will then examine the national security committees, key legislative vehicles, and the tools and techniques employed by members and staff in the art of national security policymaking on Capitol Hill. Classes will feature a combination of lectures, student presentations, guided discussions, debates, and case studies. For example, debates and case studies related to the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF), the international affairs budget, Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC), Saudi Arabia/Yemen, the Guantanamo detention facility, and the divestment of the A-10 aircraft will provide unique insights and illuminate the scope and nature of Congress’s role. The most successful national security professionals possess strong analytical skills as well as the ability to distill complex information quickly and communicate that information persuasively and succinctly. To build such skills, students will write 1-2 page memos and deliver oral presentations arguing for a particular position or recommending a Senator take a particular course of action. Upon the completion of the course, students will have gained a valuable understanding of the role of Congress in national security policy. Moreover, they will have further developed the analytical, writing, and speaking skills required to excel in national security professions.