Which trend is indicated by an increase in executive agreements over time?

The correct answer highlights an important trend in the relationship between the executive branch and international agreements. An increase in executive agreements over time suggests that presidents have increasingly utilized this mechanism for international diplomacy instead of formal treaties. Executive agreements do not require Senate approval, allowing for a more streamlined process for the president to engage with foreign entities swiftly. This shift reflects the growing reliance on executive power in foreign policy, particularly in an era where timely actions can be crucial for national interests.

The correct option captures this trend effectively, emphasizing that executive agreements have become a more prominent tool in the conduct of U.S. foreign relations compared to the more formal and often contentious treaty process, which requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate. This reliance on executive agreements shows how presidents navigate legislative hurdles and assert their authority in international affairs.