Who is the commander in chief of the military?

The role of the commander in chief of the military is held by the President of the United States. This position is established by the U.S. Constitution, specifically in Article II, Section 2, which states that the President shall be the commander in chief of the Army and Navy of the United States and of the militia of the several states when called into actual service of the United States.

This authority allows the President to make crucial military decisions, oversee military operations, and command troops, which is a vital element of executive power in the federal government. While the Secretary of Defense, the Vice President, and the Chief of Staff have significant roles in national security and military affairs, ultimately, it is the President who holds the highest authority in military matters and is responsible for strategic military decisions.