Political Quotes

“Bottom line, for too long we have failed our responsibility. We really must act to repeal the 2002 Authorization for the Use of Military Force in Iraq, and to set clear parameters about further action against Iran. Mr. McCAUL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. McClintock). Mr. McCLINTOCK. Mr. Speaker, this amendment forbids the President from taking action that he can't take anyway. With or without this amendment, the President cannot attack Iran, or any country, without Congressional authorization unless it attacks us. And even then, his powers are limited to ordering defensive actions unless Congress acts. The attack on Soleimani in Iraq was against an enemy combatant in a war zone that was authorized by Congress. It was not an attack on Iran. The only practical effect of this amendment is to send a message of irresolution to our enemies, and to take a cheap shot at the President by implying he would do something he cannot do. Now, the Lee amendment, coming next, repeals the AUMF that Congress adopted when it foolishly authorized the Iraq war in 2002. Under our Constitution, only Congress can start a war. But after that, only the President can wage it or conduct the negotiations to end it. You cannot unring a bell, and you cannot unstart a war. Once unleashed, the war-making authority continues until it is terminated by treaty or agreement. So here are the lessons of this whole sorry saga in Iraq.…”