THE NEED TO CURTAIL THE USE OF U.S. SPECIAL ENVOYS AND SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVES

Historically, Presidents periodically have sought to tap the expertise of high-level, experienced diplomats who can apply clout, perspective, and relationships to better resolve particularly challenging matters. Under the Obama Administration, however, there has been a proliferation of special envoys and representatives of relatively minor stature to address a host of issues great and small, narrow and expansive.