Sheila Jackson Lee: “This week the Nation has seen this Congress deal with the questions of the rule of law and the Constitution. But this…”

“This week the Nation has seen this Congress deal with the questions of the rule of law and the Constitution. But this Congress believes that our work is for the people and, at the same time, our oversight on issues of national security are immense and important. Yesterday, I raised a question of military presence off the shores of Iran; for no explanation has been given to the United States Congress on the need for that presence. And having been a Member of Congress during the Iraq war and, certainly, during the war in Afghanistan, committed to the men and women of the United States military, only Congress can declare war. This administration must advise and seek consent of Congress. But those of us who are concerned about national security, with the jurisdictional committees, must be briefed, and must be made aware to protect the American people. So I stand here today to say the rule of law is important, but the national security of this country is important. No war without the involvement and engagement of the United States Congress. We believe in peace and diplomacy. ____________________”