Question

Explain why a President might make an executive agreement rather than negotiate a formal treaty. In your answer, include one advantage and one disadvantage of an executive agreement.

Answer 1

An executive agreement does not require a 2/3 vote by the Senate and therefore without Congressional approval an agreement can be reached more quickly.

An advantage of an executive agreement is a quicker process for reaching an agreement with a foreign power. In a situation where violence could or is occurring, an executive agreement could be necessary to resolve the situation.

A disadvantage is a lack of Congressional support. A treaty needs a 2/3 Senate approval showing the people and another branch of the government are supporting an agreement with a foreign country. If Congress does not get a chance to support the agreement, it may be difficult to create laws or provide money to the agreement when it goes into effect.

Answer 2

An advantage is that it takes way less time to do it than to create a formal treaty since the President would not need consent from the congress for an executive agreement. A formal treaty can, however, last longer because it is more difficult to cancel, so if it's good, then it is also safer for it to be formal.