On the recordJune 16, 2016
Mr. Chairman, I respect the opinions of my chairman and ranking member, but I would surmise that if we go back to when we did the no-fly zone in Libya, we used the AUMF from 2001 and 2003, the 9/11 AUMF, and that has led to a failed state because the President did not come to this body to ask for authorization. This body did not challenge the President, and it has led to a failed state in Libya that now is a recruiting center for ISIS. So when does this stop? When does Congress take this power back so we don't put people in harm's way? Had they come to this body, Libya may still be run by Muammar Qadhafi. And I am not saying he is a good guy, But ISIS probably would not be a recruiting center in Libya as a failed state. So I urge my colleagues, let's bring this debate to the House floor, and let's have that debate so that we don't keep muddying the waters and spreading and stretching an AUMF from 15 years ago. I think it is irrational, and I think it is inappropriate for this body to continue with failed policies. It is time to get this right. The American people are counting on us, and our military is in harm's way. Mr. Chairman, I encourage people to support this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.





