United States Secretary of State

Secretary_Blinken's_Official_Department_Photo_(cropped)

United States Secretary of State

The United States Secretary of State is the head of the United States Department of State, which is concerned with foreign affairs. The Secretary of State is a member of the President's Cabinet and is the highest-ranking cabinet secretary both in line of succession and order of precedence. The Secretary of State is appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the United States Senate.

Responsibilities

The Secretary of State's duties include advising the President on foreign policy, negotiating treaties, representing the United States at the United Nations, and overseeing the operations of the United States Foreign Service. The Secretary also ensures the protection of U.S. citizens abroad and manages the issuance of passports and visas.

History

The position of Secretary of State was established in 1789, making it one of the oldest cabinet positions in the United States. The first Secretary of State was Thomas Jefferson, who served under President George Washington. Over the years, the role has evolved, but it has always been central to the formulation and execution of U.S. foreign policy.

Notable Secretaries of State

Several Secretaries of State have gone on to become President, including Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, and John Quincy Adams. Other notable Secretaries include Henry Kissinger, who played a significant role in U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, and Hillary Clinton, who served under President Barack Obama.

Office and Staff

The Secretary of State is supported by a number of officials, including the Deputy Secretary of State, the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, and various Assistant Secretaries who oversee specific regions and issues. The Department of State employs thousands of diplomats and civil servants who work in embassies and consulates around the world.

Line of Succession

In the presidential line of succession, the Secretary of State is fourth, following the Vice President, the Speaker of the House, and the President pro tempore of the Senate.

See Also

• United States Department of State
• Foreign policy of the United States
• List of Secretaries of State of the United States
• United States Foreign Service
• United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations