Fitzpatrick: Critical Questions Remain Unanswered on Syria

Statement

Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) released the following statement Thursday regarding military involvement in Syria:

While the international community must unequivocally condemn the use of chemical weapons, both the Constitution and the War Powers Act are clear in enumerating the obligations placed on the President when seeking to commit the use of American military force. The president must abide by these constitutional and legal requirements; the president deserves credit for consulting with Congress.

In making his case, the President must be clear with Congress- and the country- about his proposal: What is the critical national objective? What are the military metrics of success? How can the President guarantee that his proposed military response would be a limited, punitive strike? What resources will be dedicated to the humanitarian issues associated with an escalation in violence?

The answers to these critical questions and concerns have not been adequately addressed at this point, and the case for military involvement has not been made to me, my constituents, or the American people.

My constituents are skeptical and reluctant to be drawn into this conflict - something that my vote will reflect.

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