Despite common misconceptions, Congress plays an active and important role in determining U.S. foreign policy.

That was the thesis of “Steering Through Turmoil: Presidents, Congress, and the Post 9/11 World,” a presentation created by James M. Scott of Oklahoma State University and Ralph G. Carter of Texas Christian University.

Scott described the current administration as being a “prerogative presidency,” in which the president has enforced unilateral control over foreign policy. This model, with the presidency being number one, is frequently mentioned in foreign policy textbooks, Carter added.

However, the Bush administration is notable in its exercise of power.

“It’s hard to find a more serious example of executive authority than this administration,” Scott said.

Carter said that many scholars contend that Congress does not have a huge role in determining foreign policy. At the same time, numerous presidential biographies mention the president’s frustration at Congress.

“How can Congress hamstring the president’s activity while not doing anything?” Carter asked.

The answer, Carter said, lies in the difference between congressional activity and congressional assertiveness. Congressional activity is official business, including roll call votes and legislation. Congressional assertiveness involves behind-the-scenes negotiations and bargains.

Furthermore, congressmen who assert can be described as entrepreneurs. Scott described entrepreneurs as a special set of congressmen, who take initiatives in foreign policy that the current presidency is either not addressing or failing at.

Scott and Carter cited several examples of entrepreneurs. As majority leader in Congress, Lyndon B. Johnson succeeded in having civilians explore outer space. President Dwight Eisenhower wanted the military to lead the way. Rep. Charlie Wilson, with the assistance of the CIA, funneled money and weapons to the Muhjadeen, who helped drive the Soviets out of Afghanistan.

A more recent example involves the war in Iraq. Sen. Dick Lugar (R-Ind.) and Sen. John Warner (R-Virg.) were instrumental in getting the Bush Administration to push for benchmarks on the Iraqi government.

Scott and Carter are accredited experts in the field of foreign policy. Both are chairs of the political science department at their respective universities.

This event was hosted by the political science department and the honors program.