Lipinski Statement in Support of War Powers Resolution

Statement

Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) released the following statement in support of H.Con.Res. 83:

"Today I voted for a resolution confirming that President Trump must abide by the 1973 War Powers Resolution if he wants to commit the United States to a war against Iran. Despite the rhetoric in the debate surrounding this resolution, it does not in any way limit the President from taking action to defend Americans, including our brave servicemembers serving anywhere around the world.

"I have always asserted that Congress should exercise its constitutional powers and stop ceding more power to the president, no matter their party. The legislative branch has yielded far too much power to the executive branch over the years. This vote once again exerts Congress' power.

"Iran remains a terribly belligerent force in the Middle East that is a threat to the stability of the region and the world. But no one should want war with Iran. President Trump took a risk with the killing of Iranian General Qasem Suleimani, a terrorist who was responsible for the deaths of thousands, including hundreds of members of the U.S. military. So far that risk appears to be paying off. The Administration is suggesting that this was an isolated action, but it is not clear what the President's plan is going forward with Iran and whether he intends further military action. Therefore, it is important for Congress to insist that he abide by the 1973 War Powers Resolution that requires a declaration of war from Congress if President Trump intends to go to war with Iran."

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