https://pjmedia.com/michaelledeen/2008/05/06/the-state-department-and-the-president/feed/PJ Media is a leading news site covering culture, politics, faith, homeland security, and more. Our reporters and columnists provide original, in-depth analysis from a variety of perspectives.en-usWed, 10 Jun 2026 08:41:21 -0400<![CDATA[It&#8217;s become a standard theme:  the State Department makes its own foreign policy, whatever the president might desire.  And most people think this is something new.  It isn&#8217;t.  Take a look at this fascinating excerpt from Clark Clifford&#8217;s memories of his years in Washington.  It deals with President Harry Truman&#8217;s decision to recognize the State of Israel.  The State Department didn&#8217;t want to do it, and on at least one occasion took direct action to thwart Truman.  He was stunned and depressed, he said that State had made him look like a liar.  And we&#8217;re talking about sixty years ago.]]>Tue, 06 May 2008 09:43:47 -0400<![CDATA[Michael Ledeen]]>https://pjmedia.com/michael-ledeen/2008/05/06/the-state-department-and-the-president-n186020