Which government official is responsible for foreign policy?

The Secretary of State is the government official primarily responsible for foreign policy in the United States. This role involves overseeing the country's international relations, managing diplomatic engagements, and crafting policies that guide how the U.S. interacts with other nations. The Secretary of State represents the U.S. at the United Nations, negotiates treaties, and communicates with foreign governments, playing a pivotal role in shaping national security and international diplomacy.

In contrast, the Secretary of Defense focuses on military policy and the defense of the nation, the Chief Justice oversees the judicial system and interprets laws, and the Attorney General serves as the chief legal advisor and enforces federal laws. While all these roles are integral to the functioning of the government, the authority over foreign affairs and international relations distinctly falls within the purview of the Secretary of State.