U.S. Rep. Takai Asks Experts for Clarity in Armed Services Hearing on Authorization of Use of Military Force

Statement

Congressman Mark Takai (HI-01) today met in a House Armed Services Committee session to receive testimony on "Outside Perspectives on the President's Proposed Authorization for the Use of Military Force Against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant." During the hearing, Takai had an opportunity to query experts from the military and academic communities on areas on which he has been seeking further clarity.

"In this hearing I raised several questions in regard to the overly broad language contained within the AUMF. Not only is the geographical scope of the AUMF largely undefined, but the overall duration and scope of our potential military actions has yet to be clarified," Takai said. "Before we commit ourselves to another conflict in the Middle East, we should be sure that we take the important steps of clarifying the role our military will play.

"The answers I received in today's hearing highlighted the need to push for more clarification as we move forward on this Authorization. Congress needs to be presented with a clearly defined plan for combatting the Islamic State before it approves the Authorization. We cannot let ourselves enter into another conflict without a proper understanding of what this will entail," Takai added.

President Obama's proposed AUMF was presented to Congress on Feb. 11, 2015. Congress will hold hearings and debates over the Authorization in the coming weeks.

"The decision to send our Armed Forces into combat is one of the most difficult and important decisions an elected official can make. Having been deployed to the Middle East, I understand the challenges and dangers our troops will be facing. I want to ensure that Congress is well informed before we begin our deliberations on this critical issue," Takai concluded.

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