I.                      Kinds of Foreign Policy

1.         In the United States, Congress declares war, and such restrictions can disadvantage the U.S. in the realm of foreign policy, but some say that some presidents have gone too far in the past.

                                                                i.      The major questions in foreign policy remain: how great are the president’s powers, what role should Congress play, and how important are the public and interest groups?

2.         The decision to go to war, the signing of alliances with European nations, and the negotiation of nuclear test ban treaties are examples of foreign policy that fall under majoritarian politics.

                                                                i.      The president is usually the powerful figure supported by the public.

3.         Foreign policy decisions, such as the adjustment of tariff rates, could reflect interest group politics too.

                                                                i.      Raising the tariff on Japanese-produced steel helps American steel makers but hurts those that used to purchase Japanese steel.

4.         Examples in client politics can occur when, say, America provides aid to U.S. corporations doing business abroad; another example is the U.S. involvement in Israel, since lots of Jews favor it.

                                                                i.      In client or interest group politics, Congress plays a much larger role, and it can also be the forum where clashing opinions are expressed and criticism is laced.

                                                               ii.      Congress often seeks to expand it foreign policy power during times of controversy, especially if it is the president’s fault!