William_T._Bianco,_David_T._Canon]_American_Polit

626 Chapter 17 | Foreign Policy

On one level, Donald Trump’s foreign policy, with its emphasis on “putting America

first,” is a sharp departure from that of his predecessors, particularly the imposition of

trade tariffs on other countries and the withdrawal from trade agreements with other

nations, threats to use military force against countries such as North Korea, efforts

to reduce admissions of refugees to the United States, and the emphasis on enhanced

border security (including a proposal to build a wall between the United States and

Mexico). On another level, while all these changes are significant, major portions of

America’s foreign policy remain unchanged. For example, while Trump’s rhetoric has

emphasized attacking ISIL forces in Syria rather than helping rebel forces fighting

the Syrian government, it appears that America and its allies have continued to give

military aid and technical support to rebel forces.

“Why

Should

I Care?”

Maybe you don’t care about foreign policy—although as we discuss throughout this

chapter, you probably should. In the modern era, no nation can separate itself from the

rest of the world. The same is true for individual citizens, even you. Your job, cost of living,

and even your personal safety are affected by America’s foreign policy. Making sense of

foreign policy (or deciding where you stand on foreign policy questions) requires you to

know some history and some basic terminology. History helps you understand America’s

place in the world and how different issues came about. Knowing the basic terminology

used in foreign affairs helps you understand what politicians and pundits are talking

about when they discuss foreign policy issues.

Foreign policy makers

Who shapes the United States’ relations with other nations, and what is the source

of their influence? We begin with the president and the executive branch, then

consider Congress, the courts, and, finally, other groups and individuals outside the

government. Nuts & Bolts 17.2 summarizes the foreign policy powers of the two most

important actors: the president and Congress.

EXPLAIN HOW THE VARIOUS

BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT

SHAPE FOREIGN POLICY

NUTS Foreign Policy Powers of the President and Congress

& B O LT S

1 7. 2

President Congress

Commander in chief of armed forces Can declare war

Nominates and appoints senior officials in Department of Defense Senate must approve Defense nominees

Negotiates treaties and executive agreements with other nations Treaties take effect only if approved by Senate

Changes policy with executive orders and findings Can overturn orders and findings with legislation

Attempts to mobilize public opinion behind foreign policy goals Makes policy using “power of the purse” (annual budget)

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