Friday, June 3, 2011

Cole's Vote Seeks Libya Military Ops Authorization

Congressman Tom Cole today voted in favor of requiring President Obama to seek congressional authorization for future military operations in Libya.

The measure also calls for a specified withdrawal process.

Cole voted in favor of H.Res. 292, which requires Obama to seek congressional authorization for military operations in Libya and to specify a process for withdrawal.

Cole also voted in favor of H.Con.Res. 51, a resolution calling for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Libya within 15 days.

Cole introduced legislation in April to require the Obama administration to release any State and Defense department documents pertaining to consultation with Congress prior to committing U.S. forces to intervene in Libya. These requirements are included in H.Res. 292.

"Gadhafi is certainly an evil man with a long record of atrocities, but the fact remains that Libya has not attacked the U.S. or our interests, has not served as a safe haven for terrorists, and has actually cooperated with the U.S. in turning over its stockpiles of nuclear-related materials and WMD. There is simply no constitutional authority or compelling U.S. interest to justify intervention in Libya -- especially when our armed forces are already fighting two wars.

"In committing U.S. forces without seeking congressional authorization, President Obama has gone beyond his constitutional authority and violated the War Powers Resolution. Congress must not allow this disturbing precedent to stand, and it is appropriate that we hold these votes to enforce the Constitution and hold the president accountable.

"All Americans hope for peace and freedom in Libya and throughout the Middle East, but I cannot support committing our troops to Libya."

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