Political Quotes

“I am going to vote in favor of this resolution. Let me say, first, that I think the predictions of chaos and gloom are mistaken. If we were to vote this resolution and begin an orderly process of involving the courts and requiring this Congress to face up to its responsibilities, nothing would happen precipitously. We would have plenty of time to deal with it. I am voting for the resolution for a couple of reasons. First of all, I have consistently, since being here, taken the position that the President of the United States should not commit significant troop levels for prolonged periods of time without congressional approval. That is whether I agree with the specific commitment or not. A lot changed for me in 1992. 1992 was a good year electorally, but it did not change my constitutional view that the President ought not to be making these commitments. To respond to emergencies is one thing, but a long-term commitment is another. It does seem to me that we ought to have congressional approval. I believe that with regard to Iraq, I would support military action against Iraq if they violate the agreement they made recently, but I do think it ought to come here first.”