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History

Checks and Balances in Foreign Treaty Ratification

Quick fact

The U.S. Constitution requires a two-thirds supermajority in the Senate to ratify a treaty, making it one of the most difficult legislative acts to accomplish—only about 40% of treaties submitted to the Senate have been ratified since 1789.

Why this is interesting

Have you ever wondered why the U.S. President has the power to negotiate a treaty but cannot ratify it without the Senate's approval? The Constitution built a deliberate hurdle into foreign policy making that protects minority interests and shapes global commitments.