### Title: The Role of Congress in U.S. Foreign Policy
#### Synopsis:
In today’s lesson, we delved into the intricate role that Congress plays in shaping and executing U.S. foreign policy. We examined the historical context and the evolving dynamics between Congress and the presidency, focusing on the impact of partisanship on foreign policy decisions, particularly through the lens of the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA).
#### Attendance:
– Absent Students: Zarifa, Fatima Baluch, Carl, Samir, Asiel, Aydanah
– Total Absent: 6
#### Topics Covered:
1. **Introduction to Congress’s Role in Foreign Policy**
– Importance of checks and balances
– Debate on proper decision-making and representation
2. **Congress’s Powers in Foreign Policy**
– Legislative authority and specific powers
– Budgetary and regulatory roles
– Oversight functions (investigations, hearings, reports)
3. **Historical Context and Congressional Dynamics**
– Post-WWII cooperation
– McCarthyism and antagonism
– Cold War cooperation and Vietnam War skepticism
– Post-Cold War partisanship and modern challenges
4. **Partisanship and Its Impact on Foreign Policy**
– Challenges in legislation and oversight due to partisanship
– Public and international perception issues
– Case study: JCPOA and congressional debate
#### Actionable Items:
– **Model Congress Preparation**: Assign students specific congressmen to represent for a model Congress activity on Thursday, focusing on a foreign policy initiative.
– **Partisanship Discussion**: Encourage students to reflect on the implications of partisanship on the legislative process and foreign policy decision-making.
#### Homework:
– **Research Assignment**: Students to research and prepare for the model Congress activity, understanding the positions and background of the congressmen they will represent.
– **Reading Assignment**: Students should review the historical shifts in congressional and presidential relations regarding foreign policy.