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Define Executive Agreement

Define Executive Agreement

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In this article, we will explore the meaning of “executive agreement” and its importance in the legal and political spheres.

An executive agreement is a type of international agreement made by the executive branch of the United States government without obtaining the advice and consent of the Senate. Unlike treaties, which require approval from two-thirds of the Senate, executive agreements are entered into by the President or other high-ranking officials, such as the Secretary of State, on behalf of the government.

Executive agreements are considered to be legally binding and can cover a wide range of issues, including trade, defense, and environmental policy. They are often used as a means to bypass the lengthy and complicated process of obtaining approval from the Senate for a treaty.

One notable example of an executive agreement is the recent United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaced the previous North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The USMCA was negotiated and signed by the executive branch in 2018 and implemented in 2020 without approval from the Senate.

Another example of an executive agreement is the Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The JCPOA was negotiated and signed by the executive branch in 2015 as a way to limit Iran`s nuclear program, without the need for Senate approval.

While executive agreements have been used for decades, they have recently come under scrutiny for their potential to bypass the checks and balances of the U.S. government. Some argue that executive agreements give too much power to the President and other high-ranking officials, as they are able to make significant policy decisions without the oversight of Congress.

In conclusion, understanding the meaning of executive agreements is essential for anyone interested in international relations or U.S. government policy. While they can be a useful tool for negotiating and implementing policy, they also raise important questions about the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government.