War Powers Act

In 1970 American troops invaded Cambodia.  Congress was never told.  One of the five articles of impeachment brought against President Nixon involved the Cambodian invasion, but it was not adopted.  The argument against adoption was that Nixon had done what all Presidents do.

In response to this arbitrary Presidential policy-making, Congress adopted the War Powers Act.  The Act, recognizing modern realities, said a President could send troops but he or she had to inform Congress.  If Congress did not approve, the troops had to be withdrawn in three months.

President Obama now argues that the U.S. action in Libya doesn't fall under the War Powers Act provisions because no troops are involved--just billions of dollars worth of weaponry.  This is the kind of argument that a lawyer would make.  The intent of the law was to rein in presidential power.  President Obama should obey the spirit of the law.  I happen to agree with our policy in Libya, but the intent of the War Powers Act should be followed.  President Obama is very wrong on this.