Political Quotes

“I appreciate the gentlewoman for yielding and join her in opposition; although, I must tell you I am always very reserved about opposing an amendment put forth by a Notre Dame graduate. But, in all seriousness, I would say that I do appreciate the gentleman's concern with the devolving situation in Yemen in that we do not want to get involved in a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. I am also in agreement with much of the intent behind the amendment and certainly agree that Congress has relinquished much of its oversight role over Presidential decisions about sending U.S. Armed Forces into hostilities provided under the War Powers Act. That is why I am a strong supporter of efforts to develop a new Authorization for Use of Military Force for the global war on terror. Congress needs to, finally, after 16 years, carry out its constitutional duty and stop hiding from this very important debate that the gentleman has raised in his amendment. However, I do have concerns that the gentleman's amendment, as written, is overly broad and would place undue restrictions on U.S. Forces within the Middle East to respond to legitimate threats within Yemen. So, again, very reluctantly, I join with the chairwoman in opposition, and I appreciate her yielding.”