Military & Foreign
Why it matters
Defense and foreign policy covers the armed forces, the federal defense budget, diplomacy, foreign aid, and veterans' affairs. It weighs national security and global commitments against cost and competing domestic priorities.
Top Bills Related to this issue
Top Officials Involved
Top Committees
The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations was established in 1816 as one of the original ten standing committees of the Senate. Throughout its history, the committee has been instrumental in developing and influencing United States foreign policy, at different times supporting and opposing the policies of presidents and secretaries of state. The committee has considered, debated, and reported important treaties and legislation, ranging from the purchase of Alaska in 1867 to the establishment of the United Nations in 1945. It also holds jurisdiction over all diplomatic nominations. Through these powers, the committee has helped shape foreign policy of broad significance, in matters of war and peace and international relations. Members of the committee have assisted in the negotiation of treaties, and at times have helped to defeat treaties they felt were not in the national interest.
5 of this issue's top leaders serve here.
4 of this issue's top leaders serve here.
3 of this issue's top leaders serve here.
Top Organizations
Top Agencies
Military & Foreign
The military debate — the bills moving, the members driving it, and how the public feels. Sample
Why It Matters
Defense and foreign policy covers the armed forces, the federal defense budget, diplomacy, foreign aid, and veterans' affairs. It weighs national security and global commitments against cost and competing domestic priorities.
Trend Over Time
public sentiment · 30 daysInfluence Overview
Power map →Officials = distinct sponsors of recent Military bills. The full issue→committee→leadership graph lives on the Power map.



