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Senate Committee on Foreign Relations
Senate committee · 22 members
The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations has 22 members, chaired by James E. Risch with Jeanne Shaheen as ranking member. The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations was established in 1816 as one of the original ten standing committees of the Senate.
What it oversees
The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations was established in 1816 as one of the original ten standing committees of the Senate. Throughout its history, the committee has been instrumental in developing and influencing United States foreign policy, at different times supporting and opposing the policies of presidents and secretaries of state. The committee has considered, debated, and reported important treaties and legislation, ranging from the purchase of Alaska in 1867 to the establishment of the United Nations in 1945. It also holds jurisdiction over all diplomatic nominations. Through these powers, the committee has helped shape foreign policy of broad significance, in matters of war and peace and international relations. Members of the committee have assisted in the negotiation of treaties, and at times have helped to defeat treaties they felt were not in the national interest.
Majority members
Minority members
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From the congress-legislators project and official House and Senate committee rosters.
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Capitol Receipts, “Senate Committee on Foreign Relations: Members & What It Oversees,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/committee/SSFR/senate-committee-on-foreign-relations (accessed 2026-10-13).