Scenario #2
For several months there have been credible reports that there is mass genocide being carried out on the part
of the government against ethnic minorities in a small African nation. Amnesty International estimates that
more than 500,000 have been murdered thus far. In a speech to a joint session of Congress, the president of
the United States declares that he will commit 25,000 American troops to assist the United Nations in an
effort to stop the violence against civilians and restore peace to the country. In his speech, the president
contends "as the last remaining Superpower, the United States has a moral obligation and the means to stop
the murders of countless innocent men, women and children."
a) Identify and explain which formal Constitutional powers apply to this scenario.
b) What informal powers and/or roles of the president apply? Explain.
c) Are the president's actions constitutional? Identify which section of the Constitution supports your
answer.
d) If Congress disagrees with the president's action outlined above, what actions can Congress take to
limit the procident?