Which body has the exclusive power to declare war?

The body that has the exclusive power to declare war is Congress. This authority is outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the United States Constitution, which grants Congress the power to raise and support armies, provide and maintain a navy, and declare war. This provision ensures that the decision to go to war is made by the legislative branch, reflecting the democratic principle of representative decision-making rather than allowing a single executive figure to make such a significant decision.

While the President, as Commander in Chief of the armed forces, has the power to direct military operations and respond to threats, the formal declaration of war remains a congressional prerogative. This separation of powers is intended to serve as a check on the executive branch, preventing unilateral action that could lead to conflict without the consent of the elected representatives of the people.

The roles of the Supreme Court and the Secretary of Defense do not include the power to declare war; the Court interprets laws and the Constitution, while the Secretary of Defense oversees the Department of Defense and military operations, but neither holds the authority to initiate conflict on behalf of the country.