War Powers

The new draft AUMF promotes greater transparency and congressional involvement in deciding on the scope of U.S. counterterrorism operations, but it primarily serves to give Congress political leverage. As a legal matter, it leaves the president firmly in control.

When the United States uses military force, especially under controversial circumstances, it should explain the legal basis for its actions. 

Below is a transcript of President Trump's remarks announcing airstrikes in Syria this evening. The government has also released an assessment of the use of chemical weapons by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, also included below.

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

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          For Immediate Release                                                April 13, 2018

The Trump administration has fallen short in meeting Congress’s demands for transparency on the legal basis for its actions in Syria, despite relevant legal requirements. It’s time for Congress to step up its oversight efforts.