Gregory Meeks: “For the purpose of closing. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. McCaul for working together in regard to this 1991 AUMF reform that…”

“For the purpose of closing. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. McCaul for working together in regard to this 1991 AUMF reform that was put forth by Ms. Spanberger. I want to tell the gentleman that, of course, we will work together, as I indicated at the last debate that we had on the floor to repeal and replace the 2001 AUMF so that we can deal with those items that make sure that we are secure and are modernizing and updating what we need to do to make sure that we are updated and strong moving forward, utilizing what the Constitution has given us, the Article I authority in war powers. I think that is absolutely key and essential. It is difficult for all of us who sit here as Members of Congress, but it is our duty and our responsibility that we can't dodge. I think we understand that in a bipartisan way, that we are going to take up the responsibilities that we have. Passing the repeal of the 2002 AUMF was the beginning of our work of reclaiming our authority over matters of war and peace, and today's repeal of the 1991 AUMF continues that effort. Again, Representative Spanberger's bill before this Chamber today will remove an outdated AUMF and lessen the risk that the executive can circumvent Congress in utilizing military force. I thank Representative Spanberger for authoring this bill, as well as the support of so many here in Congress on both sides of the aisle for defending Congress' Article I authority.…”