Which body of the government has the power to approve treaties?

The Senate has the exclusive authority to approve treaties in the United States. According to the U.S. Constitution, specifically Article II, Section 2, the President can negotiate and sign treaties with foreign nations, but such agreements must receive the consent of the Senate. This process typically requires a two-thirds majority vote among the Senators present for approval.

This structure serves as a system of checks and balances, ensuring that both the Executive and the Legislative branches are involved in foreign relations and treaty-making decisions. The requirement for a supermajority in the Senate underscores the importance of broad consensus for international agreements, reflecting the significant impact such treaties can have on national policy and foreign affairs.

While the President plays a crucial role in initiating and negotiating treaties, the competence to formally ratify them lies squarely within the Senate's purview, highlighting the collaborative nature of governance in the U.S.