Who has the authority to declare war?

The authority to declare war is vested in Congress, as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the United States Constitution. This section specifies that Congress has the power "to declare war," emphasizing the framers' intent to ensure that such a significant decision would require deliberation and agreement from a representative body. This design reflects the democratic principle that war, being a serious matter with profound implications, should not be initiated unilaterally by one individual.

While the President serves as the Commander in Chief of the armed forces and has the authority to direct military operations, this role does not include the power to formally declare war. Additionally, neither the Supreme Court nor the Secretary of Defense has the constitutional authority to declare war; their roles are defined in different capacities within the government structure. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the legislative power of Congress in declaring war, maintaining a check on executive authority.