"The constitution vests the power of declaring war in Congress; therefore no offensive expedition of importance can be undertaken until after they shall have deliberated upon the subject and authorized such a measure"

This quote by George Washington stresses the value of Congress in the choice to state war. He is stating that the Constitution offers Congress the power to declare war, which no significant military action can be taken till Congress has actually talked about the matter and given its approval. This quote highlights the significance of the separation of powers in the United States, as it guarantees that the decision to go to war is not made by someone or branch of government, but by the cumulative decision of Congress. This quote also serves as a pointer of the importance of the checks and balances system in the United States, as it guarantees that no one branch of federal government has too much power.