Congressman Demands Accountability on Libya

Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick Friday joined with a strong bi-partisan majority to approve House Resolution 292, sponsored by Speaker John Boehner. 

The resolution declares that the President shall not deploy, establish, or maintain the presence of units and members of the United States Armed Forces on the ground in Libya.  The resolution further requires the President within 14 days, to report to Congress on our mission and why he has not sought Congressional approval for current operations.

“Under both Article I of the United States Constitution and the War Powers Act there are clear obligations placed on the President when committing American forces to military conflicts,” said Fitzpatrick.  “The President must abide by these constitutional and legal requirements.

“At a time when our nation is under severe fiscal strain at home, we must ensure that American troops are placed in harm’s way only when our national interest demands.  While there are clear humanitarian considerations in Libya, the President has failed to present a compelling national security interest that justifies opening a third theater of combat in this troubled part of the world. The President has been put on notice.”

House Resolution 292 passed the House by a vote of 268-145.