Who serves as the Commander in Chief of the military?

The President of the United States serves as the Commander in Chief of the military, as established by the Constitution. This role grants the President the authority to direct military operations and make critical decisions regarding national defense and military strategy. The responsibility to oversee military forces ensures a unified command structure under the civilian elected leadership, reinforcing the principle that the military is subordinate to elected officials and accountable to the American people. This role allows the President to respond swiftly to threats and make crucial defense decisions.

The other roles and entities mentioned do not serve as Commander in Chief. The Vice President, while an important part of the executive branch, does not have military command authority. The Secretary of Defense is responsible for the administration of the Department of Defense and advises the President on military matters but does not hold the title of Commander in Chief. Congress, although it has the power to declare war and control military funding, does not engage in direct military command. Thus, the President stands as the sole individual vested with this authority, ensuring national security under civilian governance.