What Does the Secretary of State Do?
The Secretary of State is one of the highest-ranking positions in the United States government and is responsible for helping to shape and direct the nation’s foreign policy. This person is the President’s primary advisor on all matters relating to U.S. foreign affairs, which includes a range of diplomatic, economic and cultural activities. The Secretary of State works with other countries, international institutions and organizations, and civil society leaders—and is the official spokesperson for the United States when it comes to foreign affairs.
Diplomatic Engagement
The Secretary of State is responsible for leading the United States Department of State, which is the primary federal agency tasked with managing U.S. diplomacy. This includes developing and implementing strategies to promote peace and security, extend economic prosperity, and advance human rights and democratic governance around the world. The Secretary of State is also responsible for leading and directing the Department’s diplomatic efforts around the world, which often involves extensive travel in order to meet with foreign leaders and promote U.S. interests.
Advancing U.S. National Interests
The Secretary of State serves a central role in the President’s national security team by helping to craft and advance the United States’ overall foreign policy agenda. This includes engaging in negotiations with foreign governments on a range of issues, ranging from trade agreements to international security and counterterrorism initiatives. The Secretary of State also serves as the President’s primary diplomat when it comes to matters such as resolving global conflicts, engaging in nuclear nonproliferation efforts, and increasing global economic development.
Enforcing U.S. Laws
Finally, the Secretary of State is tasked with enforcing the nation’s immigration laws. This includes issuing visas to foreign nationals wishing to enter the United States, as well as vetting and approving requests for deportation or allowing certain foreign nationals to remain in the country. The Secretary of State is also responsible for issuing sanctions against nations and individuals for violations of U.S. laws, including those concerning terrorism, human rights abuses, and drug trafficking.
In short, the Secretary of State serves as the President’s chief foreign affairs advisor and is responsible for helping to shape and implement the nation’s foreign policy. The Secretary of State is responsible for leading U.S. diplomatic engagement, advancing U.S. national interests, and enforcing the country’s immigration laws.