U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentMedium
A civics test applicant is asked about the body that has the power to declare war. Which body holds this power according to the U.S. Constitution?
- AThe Supreme Court
- BThe U.S. Congress
- CThe President
- DThe Secretary of Defense
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The U.S. Congress
Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution explicitly grants Congress the power to declare war. While the President serves as Commander in Chief, only Congress can formally declare war.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The Supreme Court interprets laws but does not have the power to declare war.
- C. The President is the Commander in Chief but cannot formally declare war.
- D. The Secretary of Defense is part of the executive branch and does not have the power to declare war.
Power to Declare War
The constitutional authority to formally initiate a state of war, held exclusively by the U.S. Congress.
- Granted to Congress in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution.
- Requires a majority vote in both the House and Senate.
- Distinct from the President's role as Commander in Chief, who directs military operations.
Memory trick: Congress Declares, President Commands.