The NPR Politics Podcast House Vote Reignites Tug-Of-War Over Military Authority
Jan 9, 2020
The House is voting on a resolution to limit presidential military authority regarding Iran, triggering significant political tension. Lawmakers are grappling with the legacy of expansive war-making powers from the post-9/11 era. The podcast delves into the historical clashes between Congress and the presidency, emphasizing contemporary examples like the fallout from Qasem Soleimani's assassination. Discussions also highlight the potential repeal of the 2002 AUMF and the ongoing struggle for Congress to reclaim its authority in military decision-making.
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Congressional Reluctance on War Powers
- Members of Congress often express a desire for more power in war-making decisions.
- However, they frequently avoid taking direct votes on these matters due to the complexities and political risks involved.
Constitutional Division of War Powers
- The Constitution divides war powers between the President (Commander in Chief) and Congress (funding and raising armies).
- This was intended as a shared responsibility, reflecting the understanding of warfare at the time.
Senator Lee's Criticism
- Senator Mike Lee criticized the executive branch for limiting Congressional debate on military intervention in Iran.
- He called this practice "un-American" and "unconstitutional", despite generally being a Trump ally.