Who is the Commander in Chief of the military?

The President serves as the Commander in Chief of the military, a role that is established by Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution. This authority includes overseeing military operations, making decisions regarding defense strategies, and having the power to deploy troops. The President's position as Commander in Chief allows them to lead the armed forces and ensure national security, although significant military actions usually require collaboration and consultation with Congress, especially concerning funding and declaring war.

The other options do not fulfill the role of Commander in Chief. The Vice President, while it does have significant responsibilities, is not directly in command of the military. The Secretary of Defense manages the Department of Defense and advises the President but does not have the ultimate authority as Commander in Chief. Congress holds the power to declare war and allocate funding for military operations, but it does not command the military forces directly. This creates a clear distinction where the President holds the highest military authority in the United States.