Libya: a reasonable suggestion

There has been a great deal of discussion in the media about Libya and the War Powers Act. Basically, the debate boils down to two things. First, is Congressional approval needed to keep troops figting in Libya? Second, since the president refuses to seek that approval, should Congress cut off funding for the effort? Once again, the pundits have resorted to simplistic choices to make it seem that the are no alternatives for Congress. If the Congress wants to protect its constitutional power to declare war, it can only cut off funds and stop the Libyan effort -- or so the pundits claim. Obviously, the possibility of stopping funding for American millitary actions midstream is not one that appeals to the average politician or the average American. Of course, this ignores the alternative.

Congress should pass a resolution that cuts off funding for the war effort in Libya in 40 days unless two things happen: 1)within two weeks president Obama sends a written report to Congress explaining the reason for the millitary effort in Libya and the national interest of the USA that is at stake, and 2) Congress passes a resolution after receipt of that report which authorizes the use of force in that country. This would put the ball squarely back in Obama's court. He would be forced to actually explain what the goal is in Libya. His own actions would determine if there was continued funding. It would also protect Congress' constitutional authority.

Let me be clear. I think that action in Libya is warranted. I believe that Obama wasted an early opportunity to get rid of Gaddafi; had the USA moved right at the start rather than waiting for the UN and the arab league, Gaddafi could have been toppled in those early heady days of the protests. Nevertheless, getting rid of Gaddafi is a service to all mankind. I also believe that Congress, not the president, has the power to determine if the US is going to engage in a war and that the power has to be jealously guarded. My hope would be that Obama would give a coherent reason for involvement in Libya and Congress would approve.