Publication

This report describes the statutory provision authorizing the "Gang of Eight" notifications and reviews its legislative history. The Gang of Eight refers to legislation enacted in 1980 that gave the executive branch authority to limit advance notification of especially sensitive covert actions to eight Members of Congress when the President determines that it is essential to limit prior notice in order to meet extraordinary circumstances affecting US vital interests. Examining the impact of such notifications on congressional oversight, the author argues that striking the proper balance between effective oversight and security remains a challenge to Congress and the executive.