The US House took a half-stand on the Libyan War yesterday.
Despite being ignored and marginalized by the Commander-In-Chief regarding his defiance of the War Powers Resolution, the House voted only to prohibit military aid to Libyan rebels battling Moammar Gaddafi.
They blinked, however, and stopped short of prohibiting funding for the continued US participation in the NATO mission.
Obama has maintained that Congressional approval is not required in this case since the US role is “limited” and does not constitute full-blown hostilities.
The intent of the measure which was passed by a 225-201 vote, was to prohibit direct aid to the rebels such as weapons and operational planning.
Representative Tom Cole (R-OK), a sponsor of the approved amendment, said “We should not be engaged in military action of this level unless it is authorized and funded by Congress.”
Since the passage of the War Powers Resolution of 1973, presidents have expressed their belief that the law is unconstitutional and have largely ignored it. Perhaps this Congress should cause the final decision to be made by the US Supreme Court by challenging the President. It is especially disturbing in this case where the operational decisions in this war are not being taken by Americans, but may place Americans in harms way.
Half-hearted challenges result in defeat. Moderates don’t make history.
