Rep. Takai Calls for Full and Open Debate on President Obama Use of Force Proposal

Statement

U.S. Rep. Mark Takai (HI-01), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding White House intent to seek approval of an Authorization for Use of Military Force in the coming days:

"The use of military force is one of the gravest decisions a lawmaker has to consider, and having served in the region during Operation Iraqi Freedom, it is one I do not take lightly.

"The actions of extremist groups in the Middle East violate every basic principle of human rights, and cause instability throughout the region and world. The international community must continue working together to stop these horrors.

"I have been resolute that the President consult Congress before using our military, and the ongoing operations in Iraq and Syria are no exceptions. The President should present a new Authorization for Use of Military Force to Congress as soon as possible so that we can have a full and open debate regarding the use of our military, and any consequences of deeper involvement in the conflict in the Middle East."

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