Journal and Topics - Area's U.S. Reps Urge Caution On Syria

News Article

By Tom Robb

President Barack Obama's call on Congress to authorize the use of military force against Syria has left many congresspeople representing the Northwest suburbs looking for more information. Most have not taken a firm position on the issue.

One who has taken a more defined position is U.S. Rep. Tammy Duckworth (D-8th), an Iraq War veteran who was injured in that war.

"In the days ahead, I will be seeking more information from our military and intelligence communities," Duckworth said in a written statement. "But until I feel it's imperative to our national security, I will not support preemptive intervention in Syria."

Duckworth lamented the scale of the crisis in Syria saying, "Syria is undergoing a humanitarian crisis. While the United States cannot stand by as innocent civilians are being massacred, it's my responsibility as a member of Congress to make sure we don't commit resources, the most precious of which are our men and women in uniform, with no comprehensive plan for our involvement."

She continued: "While I support the president's authority to initiate action since he was elected by this nation and in light of the divisiveness in Congress today, I will have tough questions for the administration should they intervene prior to congressional approval."

U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider (D-10th) presented a more nuanced position, expressing concern about protracted military conflict.

"The use of chemical weapons by Assad is a despicable act and a gross violation of human rights and international law. Today's decision by President Obama to seek congressional approval before any military action was the right one, and I firmly believe Congress must thoroughly review evidence to discern the facts, and in that context assess the goals and options presented by the administration," Schneider said in a written statement. "I believe the United States should not, must not, engage in a long-term military engagement in the Syrian civil war, but red lines matter and we must work in concert with our allies, or if necessary alone, to respond appropriately."

U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-9th), who sits on the House Intelligence Committee, was also seeking more information before making a final decision on how to vote.

"I believe that President Obama has made the right decision to bring this critical issue to Congress. We need to determine the best way to respond to the heinous use of chemical weapons in Syria and how we can act effectively to protect civilians from further massacres," Schakowsky said in a written statement.

U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (D-5th) represents part of Rosemont. His position on the issue has slightly evolved in the last few days. Quigley's press secretary Laura Sisemore said Quigley initially was "leaning toward no" on authorizing military force, but said now he is undecided.

She said Quigley would pay close attention to congressional hearings on the issue, but remains concerned about the scope of the commitment for a military conflict in Syria, the duration of it, what other U.S. allies might participate in the conflict and what an exit strategy from a Syrian conflict might be.

"Although I have serious concerns about a unilateral military action, any use of chemical weapons by the Syrian regime is completely unacceptable," Quigley said in a written statement. "Now is the time for the people's representatives in Congress to be fully briefed, carefully weigh the facts, and properly debate the appropriate response in Syria. Any action authorized by Congress must be limited in duration and scope and mindful of recent military engagements."

U.S. Rep. Peter Roskam (R-6th) did not have any statements regarding Syria on his congressional web page. The Journal was unable to contact his press representatives or senior aides before press time Tuesday.