Congressional Research Service Archives

Good to Know: U.S. war powers

Andrew Rudalevige - February 22, 2024

Does the president or Congress have the power to go to war?

Sarah Binder - January 22, 2024

Here’s why Congress can’t kick the habit.

Andrew Rudalevige - September 20, 2023

The "unitary executive theory" has its limits

Stuart Kasdin - September 30, 2021

When federal agencies have to put off spending decisions until the last minute, they are forced to take shortcuts

Zoe Nemerever and Melissa Rogers - April 19, 2021

The Trump administration proposed expanding what is defined as ‘rural’

Edward Hunt - March 14, 2021

Here’s why critics want to reassess U.S. security assistance to fight drug-related violence

Craig Volden and Alan E. Wiseman - September 16, 2020

Here’s how to encourage more expertise.

Liz Hempowicz and Anne Tindall - September 14, 2020

The legislature’s powers of inherent contempt might allow it to punish non-compliers.

Bruce Peabody and Harvey Lodish - July 16, 2020

Here’s the evidence.

Andrew Rudalevige - March 14, 2020

What does an emergency declaration mean, in law and practice?