Steny Hoyer: “Mr. Speaker, yesterday, today and tomorrow the Members of this House consider our most solemn constitutional obligation…”

“Mr. Speaker, yesterday, today and tomorrow the Members of this House consider our most solemn constitutional obligation, a resolution that authorizes our Commander in Chief to use our Nation's Armed Forces. We do not savor this awesome responsibility, but we will not shrink from it either. The seriousness of this occasion dictates that we debate today not as Democrats, not as Republicans, but as Americans, Americans of conscience and principle who love their country and who are committed to the security of this Nation and its people. This resolution in my view does not sound the drumbeat of war. Rather, it provides Saddam Hussein with his last chance for peace. I will support it. The resolution reflects the concerns and judgment of Members of this House from both sides of the aisle. It supports our diplomatic efforts, limits and defines the scope of authorization and requires the President to notify Congress before using force and to consult with Congress throughout the process.”