Describe the responsibilities of the secretary of state. Beyond the formal duties assigned to this position, why does the role of the secretary change from administration to administration? How have post–World War II changes affected the ability of the secretary to conduct effective diplomacy?

What will be an ideal response?

Answers should identify the secretary of state as the chief diplomat and the ranking member of the cabinet. The secretary’s responsibilities should include advising the president and overseeing the State Department, in addition to being the chief diplomat. Answers should identify how the preferences of each president, communication skills, and management style all impact the ability of the secretary to influence the decision-making process. Answers should detail how the end of WWII and the National Security Act of 1947 paved the way for the rise of the Defense Department and have led to a gradual decline in the State Department’s influence and prestige. Answers may also address the chronic problems and ongoing controversies of the State Department as factors that affect the secretary’s ability to conduct effective diplomacy.