Defense and Military

U.S. defense and military policy covers who gives the orders, how force is authorized, and how military power is funded and constrained by law. This category explains core topics like the chain of command over the armed forces, presidential war powers, and how current conflicts shape America’s role in the world.

Who Decides When and How the U.S. Uses Force

Understanding U.S. military power starts with the Constitution, which divides authority between Congress and the president. Congress can declare war, raise and support the armed forces, and set rules for them, while the president serves as commander in chief and directs military operations when constitutionally authorized.

Articles in this category explain the chain of command, the War Powers Resolution, and why presidents often test its limits. They also examine disputed scenarios such as cyber operations, naval blockades, joint strikes with allies, and threats of force in support of protesters.

Money, Weapons, and the Defense Industry

Other pieces explore how defense policy is financed and implemented through Congress, the Department of Defense, and the defense industrial base. Together, these articles show how strategy, law, spending, and military organization shape U.S. national security.