Foreign policy and trade
Alliances, sanctions, tariffs, and the country’s role abroad.
This is the one area that is almost entirely federal. Treaties, sanctions, tariffs and the use of military force belong to Congress and the President; your state legislature has no role, which makes writing to the right office especially important here.
Who decides this
- Congress
- Treaties, sanctions, tariffs, foreign aid, war powers, and arms sales.
- Your state
- Very little. Some states restrict their own pension investments or procurement, which is the main state-level lever.
- Your city or county
- Essentially none, beyond symbolic resolutions.
In Congress Senate Foreign Relations · Senate Finance · House Foreign Affairs · House Ways and Means
6 open questions
S. 4784
Should the Senate pass the FY2027 defense authorization bill?
The National Defense Authorization Act (S. 4784) sets Pentagon policy and authorizes weapons programs, readiness accounts, and military pay for fiscal 2027. Congress has enacted an NDAA every year since 1961, and the House passed its companion 216-212 in July. But Senate Democrats voted unanimously in July against taking the bill up, saying they will not advance a record defense bill while the administration fights a conflict with Iran that Congress never voted to authorize; the bill's supporters say a must-pass troop bill should not be held over a separate dispute senators can raise through amendments. A third floor attempt is expected after the Senate returns September 14. Where do you stand?
H.R. 1716
Should Congress Threaten to Freeze Chinese Officials' Assets to Deter a Taiwan Invasion?
The bill would report and restrict senior Chinese officials' assets if China threatens Taiwan. Supporters cite deterrence; opponents cite escalation risk. Where do you land?
S. 1867
Should Congress End the "De Minimis" Tariff Exemption on Low-Value Imports?
The bill would end duty-free treatment for low-value shipments, especially from China. Supporters cite fair trade and enforcement; opponents cite higher consumer costs. Where do you land?
S. 5025
Should Congress Impose Sweeping New Sanctions and Tariffs on Russia?
The bill would impose new sanctions and tariffs on Russia and its energy buyers. Supporters cite pressure on Russia; opponents cite economic and diplomatic costs. Where do you land?
H.R. 2913
Should Congress Authorize $8 Billion in New Support and Sanctions for Ukraine?
The bill would authorize loans to Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia. Supporters cite deterring aggression; opponents cite cost and escalation. Where do you land?
Federal policy
Who Should Control Tariffs: Congress or the President?
In Learning Resources v. Trump (2026), the Supreme Court ruled the President can't use emergency powers to impose tariffs, ending those tariffs and reaffirming that tariff power belongs to Congress. The President still sets some tariffs under other trade laws, like Section 122, which caps them at 150 days unless Congress votes to extend. The question is back before Congress: reclaim control of tariffs, or leave the President room to act. Where do you stand?
Common questions
- Can my state legislator do anything about tariffs?
- No. Tariffs are set by Congress and the President. On this subject your senators and House member are the only people to write to.