Executive Summary
This thesis conducts a comparative analysis of Congressional control over defense spending trends between the Cold War and post-Cold War eras. It examines legislative indicators like bill pages and amendments, alongside information gathering through hearings. The study concludes that the increasing trend of Congressional control observed during the Cold War has leveled off in the post-Cold War period, suggesting a maximum capacity has been reached.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense and geopolitical analysts as it provides insights into the historical and ongoing dynamics of legislative oversight on military budgets, directly impacting defense management and strategic flexibility. Understanding these trends helps predict future resource allocation and the DoD's operational autonomy.
Key Takeaways
- Congressional control over defense spending, which increased during the Cold War, has leveled off in the post-Cold War era.
- The study uses legislative indicators (bill pages, amendments) and information gathering (hearings) to measure Congressional control.
- Increased Congressional control directly reduces the Department of Defense's flexibility in spending, impacting its ability to meet evolving threats.
Strategic Relevance
Understanding the trends in Congressional control over defense spending is strategically important for defense management, resource allocation, and long-term strategic planning. It highlights the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches regarding military capabilities and operational flexibility, influencing national security posture.