Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania: Background and U.S.-Baltic Relations
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, often referred to as the Baltic states, are democracies and close U.S. allies. Strong U.S. relations with these three states are rooted in history. The United States ne...
Democracy and Human Rights in U.S. Foreign Policy: Evolution, Tools, and Considerations for Congress
U.S. law declares the promotion and protection of democracy, human rights, and fundamental freedoms to be “principal” and “fundamental” goals of U.S. foreign policy. Congress has debated matters of de...
The North Atlantic Treaty: U.S. Legal Obligations and Congressional Authorities
On July 21, 1949, the Senate passed a resolution giving its advice and consent to the ratification of the North Atlantic Treaty, the multilateral collective security agreement that established the Nor...
The Presidential Inaugural Parade: Past Practices and Congressional Considerations
Every four years, following the swearing-in ceremony, inaugural address, and congressional luncheon at the U.S. Capitol, the newly sworn in President traditionally travels to the White House and obser...
FTC Revives Enforcement of the RobinsonPatman Act
On December 12, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sued Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits (Southern), the largest U.S. distributor of wine and spirits, alleging that the company violated the Ro...
Jimmy Carter: Electoral Context and Background on Campaign Finance and Elections Policy
James Earl “Jimmy” Carter, Jr., the 39th President of the United States and former Georgia Governor, died on December 29, 2024. As Congress prepares for a state funeral, this CRS Insight discusses sel...
Presidential State Funerals: Past Practices and Current Considerations
On December 29, 2024, former President James Earl “Jimmy” Carter, Jr. died. In the tradition of past presidential deaths, President Carter will receive a state funeral (designated as a National Specia...
Tax-Exempt Organizations Under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c): Political Activity Restrictions
The ability of tax-exempt organizations under 26 U.S.C. § 501(c) to engage in political activity, such as campaign activity and lobbying, depends on the nature of the organization. For example, the ch...
Drone Encounters Prompt Calls for Restrictions and Other Protections
In October 2024, it was reported that suspected formations of drones had flown in airspace near Langley Air Force Base and naval facilities in Norfolk, VA, over multiple days. According to other repor...