Who is known as the Commander-in-chief of the armed forces?

The President is recognized as the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces according to the United States Constitution. This role empowers the President to oversee military operations, make strategic decisions regarding national defense, and command the military during times of peace and war. The framers of the Constitution designated this authority to the President to ensure that military power remains under civilian control, which is a fundamental principle in American democracy to prevent the rise of military dictatorship.

The Vice President does not hold this authority, as their primary role is to support the President and assume their duties in case of incapacity. Similarly, the Secretary of Defense is responsible for the Defense Department and oversees military operations, but they report to the President rather than commanding the armed forces directly. Congress has the power to declare war and grant funding to the military, but it does not have command authority over military forces, which is reserved for the President. This clear delineation of powers is crucial for maintaining a balanced government structure.