ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the theoretical framework for determining under what circumstances the Chadha decision will have an impact on congressional-executive relations in foreign policy. It aims to determine what factors or variables promote conflict between the branches. The dependent variable is the intensity of conflict between the executive and legislative branches of government. Measuring the intensity of conflict between Congress and the executive presents a variety of problems, both conceptual and methodological. The independent variables which determine the potential for conflict are: congressional assertiveness, presidential claims of authority, and congressional will to oppose the president on a given issue. The chapter presents a typology of foreign policy issues which are characterized by systematic variations in congressional assertion, congressional will, policy making process and the consequent impact of Chadha. Symbolic/ceremonial issues include the recognition of foreign governments and the receiving of foreign dignitaries and heads of state.
