The president has many executive branch advisers to assist with foreign and defense policy. To what extent is the president's foreign policy strength related to this large cadre of advisers?

In what situations would the president be most likely to consult with each of the following: the vice president, the secretary of state, the secretary of defense, the secretary of homeland security, the director of National Intelligence, the National Security Council, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff?

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Explain how the president's strength comes in large part from the president's large cadre of advisers. With so many advisers, the president has much information and expertise available at all times of the day or night.
2. Provide a situation in which the president might consult with the vice president, such as when the president needs a loyal confidant who can help address the political implications of a foreign policy action.
3. Provide a situation in which the president might consult with the secretary of state, such as when the president wants to know the status of diplomatic negotiations.
4. Provide a situation in which the president might consult with the secretary of defense, such as when the president wants military advice from the perspective of a civilian official.
5. Provide a situation in which the president might consult with the secretary of homeland security, such as when the president is weighing how a foreign policy might affect the safety and security of the United States.
6. Provide a situation in which the president might consult with the director of National Intelligence, such as when the president needs intelligence about the military or nuclear capabilities of a foreign government.
7. Provide a situation in which the president might consult with the National Security Council, such as when there is a rapidly developing foreign policy crisis that needs immediate attention.
8. Provide a situation in which the president might consult with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, such as when the president needs to fully understand the different capabilities of the different service branches of the U.S. military.