Political Quotes

“Let me say that no one on this side needs to be lectured to about preserving America's role in the world. I just think that we don't think there should be a blank check for war. I will mention a couple of things that are relevant here. The 2001 AUMF passed after 9/11 authorizes counterterrorism operations. The 2002 AUMF has nothing to do with counterterrorism operations, al-Qaida, or ISIS. It specifically says the threat posed by Iraq, not al-Qaida. The reference to al-Qaida is in the findings, not in the authorization. It does not need to be replaced because the 2001 AUMF is still in the books. The administration has been clear with Congress that counterterrorism operations would not stop if the 2002 AUMF is repealed. I would note that it is the President's recent actions in the Middle East that have posed challenges to our efforts to defeat ISIS. The United States has had to cease operations against ISIS because our military is needed for force protection after the Soleimani strike. So if there is anything that has posed an obstacle to our fight against terrorism, it is the recent actions of the administration. I think a little thing should be put into perspective here. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Espaillat), a valued member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs.”