The Constitution assigns Congress the power to declare war, fund the military, approve treaties and regulate commerce with other nations. Yet, over the past century presidents have taken the leading role in foreign affairs. Today, the president heads an expanding executive branch security apparatus—one which has found itself mired in controversy many times.

What role does Congress play in foreign affairs in the 21st century? What duties should it have? Does Congress have the resources it needs?

Come join us as we discuss these questions. Lunch will be provided.

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Speakers: 

Katherine Kidder, Center for a New American Security

Kurt Couchman, Defense Priorities

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This meeting is open to Capitol Hill staff (except interns); experts on Congress; and anyone else who cares about the well-being of America’s legislative branch. This meeting is open to media, and the group’s co-directors, Kevin R. Kosar and Lee Drutman, are available for interviews and comment. They can be reached at kkosar@rstreet.org and drutman@newamerica.org.

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New America and the R Street Institute launched the Legislative Branch Capacity Working Group in spring 2016. The group formed in response to widespread perception that Congress is dysfunctional. The Legislative Branch Capacity Working Group aims to assess Congress’ capacity to perform its constitutional duties and to collaborate on ideas to improve the legislative branch’s performance in our separation-of-powers system.