Question

1. which of the following is true concerning the current state of the war power?

presidents can commit troops but must obtain congressional approval to keep them in harms way.
both houses of congress must consent in all instances where troops are committed in harms way.
presidents can declare war, but must get the approval of congress to actually commit troops.
presidents can unilaterally declare war.

1. how does the constitution divide power between the three branches?

power is not clearly separated, so it is difficult to determ who has what power or check on the other branches
power is completely separated, allowing each branch to act and follow through without interference from the other two branches.
power is separated, but in such a way that two branches can easily work together to out vote the efforts of the third branch to exercise its powers.
power is not completely separated, allowing each branch to limit the other branches exercise of power.

Explanation:

• For question 12: According to the War Powers Resolution, the President can deploy troops but must get Congressional approval to keep them in "harm's way" (engaged in hostilities or situations where hostilities are imminent). Congress has the power of the purse and can cut off funding for troops if they don't approve of their continued deployment. The Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war, not the President. And it's not required that both houses consent in all instances for troop commitment (the President has some initial authority under the War Powers Resolution).
• For question 13: The U.S. Constitution uses a system of separation of powers with checks and balances. Each branch (legislative, executive, judicial) has its own powers, but they are not completely separate. For example, the President (executive) can veto legislation (legislative power), but Congress can override the veto. The judicial branch can declare laws (legislative) or executive actions unconstitutional. This shows that power is not completely separated, allowing each branch to limit the other branches' exercise of power.

Answer:

1. Presidents can commit troops but must obtain congressional approval to keep them "in harm's way."
2. Power is not completely separated, allowing each branch to limit the other branches' exercise of power.