Rep. Cicilline Statement on President's Remarks Regarding Syria

Statement

U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI), who will return to Washington tomorrow afternoon to attend a classified briefing on Syria, issued the following statement in response to President Obama's announcement that he will seek Congressional authorization for the use of military force:

"Over the past week, the Obama administration has carefully outlined an overwhelming and compelling case that Bashar al-Assad's regime bears direct responsibility for the deliberate and indiscriminate chemical weapons attacks that killed nearly 1,500 Syrians, including more than 400 children. These atrocities demand a strong response from the international community."

"The American people deserve a thorough discussion of any potential military action against Syria, and I applaud the President's decision to seek Congressional authorization for the use of force. The President's announcement today demonstrates not only a high regard for the powers delegated to Congress by the Constitution, but also a willingness to have a vigorous debate regarding the risks and implications of any American involvement."

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