Escalation of U.S. Role in Syria Highlights Need for Congressional Debate
Oakland, CA – On news that U.S. troops will be escalating operations in Syria, Congresswoman Barbara Lee released this statement:
“I am deeply concerned by escalating mission creep in Syria, especially since Congress has yet to debate the costs and consequences of this military operation.
The Constitution is clear: the power to declare war rests with Congress. We serve as the voice of the American people – our actions in Congress should reflect that sacred responsibility.
Congress must act immediately to repeal the 2001 and 2002 authorizations for military force (AUMFs), which continue to be used as blank checks for endless war.
It is past time for our elected officials to recognize that there is no military solution to the problems in the region. Only a comprehensive, regionally-led strategy that addresses the underlying political, economic, humanitarian and diplomatic challenges can ultimately degrade and dismantle ISIL.
To that end, I am pleased that the Administration is engaging in talks with other global and regional entities. Only together can we build a united global front against ISIL and advance a peaceful resolution to the war in Syria.”
BACKGROUND
Congresswoman Lee has introduced H.J. Res. 30, which repeals the 2001 and 2002 AUMFs while ensuring the development of a comprehensive strategy to address ISIL.
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Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip’s Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity.