ABSTRACT
In United States (US) history, predominance in the making of foreign policy has shifted back and forth between the two institutions entrusted by the Constitution with foreign policy responsibilities-the executive and the legislative branches of the federal government. Presidential power increased and the congressional role in foreign policy diminished while US commitments and involvement around the world grew and weaponry became increasingly sophisticated. Congress staked out a stronger role for itself by insisting on greater involvement and oversight in key areas as intelligence and arms transfers. The Court's legislative veto ruling raised questions about the War Powers Resolution, specifically the provision allowing Congress, by a concurrent resolution, to force the withdrawal of US troops engaged in hostilities overseas without specific congressional authorization. Though Congress can have its most obvious impact through the exercise of its formal powers, it can be influential in a more informal sense.
