Why Congress Can’t Sue to End Military Conflicts

Suits that challenge the president’s overreach in foreign relations have largely failed in federal court. This is because courts have been consistently unwilling to second guess the executive branch’s military decision-making and have instilled common law barriers that firmly limit judicial engagement in this field.

Two of the more common legal barriers to Congress’ success in federal court include the doctrines of standing and political question. Individual members of Congress, hoping to block military action, often lack standing to sue. And Congress—even citing institutional concerns—often fares no better under the political question doctrine.

The Courts have offered some advice: use its institutional power. When it comes to addressing the current conflicts in Afghanistan, Syria and beyond, Congress will see more results on the floor than in the courtroom.