Just now I voted “Present” for the first time as a member of Congress, IIRC. I did so b/c I could neither vote for nor against the resolution as drafted regarding the situation in Syria/Turkey.
Here’s why: 1) Voting FOR the resolution would have both implied the... (1/x)
Here’s why: 1) Voting FOR the resolution would have both implied the... (1/x)
wisdom of a continued presence in Syria based on an 18 year-old AUMF, and also embraced a political attack on POTUS by the very DEMS working to weaken him by impeachment – when that same Congress refuses to stand up and debate and vote on a modern authorization of force... (2/x)
...that would clearly define our mission abroad and put us on record for the cost in both blood & treasure that this brings. 2) Voting AGAINST the legislation would have suggested that I am not concerned about the 10,000 ISIS terrorists that are at risk of being loosed, (3/x)
...the aggression by Turkey, the impact on our allies (be they Israel or otherwise), or the fact neither I nor most of my colleagues have been briefed by the White House/DOD/State despite numerous requests.
It is my considered judgment that 1) the White House should... (4/x)
It is my considered judgment that 1) the White House should... (4/x)
...brief ALL members of Congress on a regular basis regarding our forces abroad & the administration’s approach to carrying out Congress’ AUMF, & 2)it is long past time for Congress to debate and vote on a modern, updated Authorization of Force to define our mission... (5/x)
...clearly and to spell out the requirements to ensure that we are properly resourced to carry that mission out. (6/6) /end #ClearMission
