Congressman Canseco's statement on votes in the House of Representatives concerning U.S. military involvement in Libya

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24th, 2011

Contact:  Valentina Weis
(202) 225-4511 or

Valentina.Weis@mail.house.gov

Congressman Canseco’s statement on votes in the House of Representatives concerning U.S. military involvement in Libya

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Francisco “Quico” Canseco (TX-23) released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted on legislation (H.J. Res. 68 and H.R. 2278) regarding the United States’ military involvement in Libya:

“Today, the House of Representatives debated legislation to determine the scope of the United States’ military involvement in Libya, fulfilling its role as a co-equal branch of government.  I believe that the United States has a strategic interest in Libya, and that removing Moammar Gadhafi from power is in the best interest of the United States.

President Obama’s own attorneys have concluded that he has conducted military operations in Libya without the necessary, explicit authorization from Congress.  By doing this, President Obama has simply ignored the rule of law and Congress’ constitutional role in the conduct of military affairs.

President Obama needs to specifically define our mission and objectives in Libya, something he has failed to do thus far.  I voted against H.J. Res. 68 and H.R. 2278 because they gave President Obama a pass to continue conducting operations without providing the necessary justification to Congress.  However, should President Obama fail to seek congressional approval, he may leave Congress with no choice but to exercise its constitutional authority.”

To schedule an interviewplease contact Valentina Weis at (202) 225-4511 or Valentina.Weis@mail.house.gov

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