Udall Calls Libya a “Slippery Path” for America’s Military

Sen. Tom Udall today said Congress should use its war powers authority to make a definitive statement on the use of force in Libya.

The Democratic lawmakers explained his view in a column he penned for Huffington Post. A press release his office sent out includes the following comments:

“I have been proud to serve in the U.S. Congress for more than a decade. I have served in the body during two wars. I have seen the impacts on our military, on their families, and on our national deficit,” Udall said. “I’m concerned that we’re heading down a slippery path towards an escalation of military force in Libya. Before the United States escalates its involvement in another overseas conflict, this body must weigh in. It’s our constitutional duty to our country and our constituents.”

The War Powers Act requires the President to “terminate any use of United States Armed Forces” after a period of 60 days unless Congress “has declared war or has enacted a specific authorization for such use of United States Armed Forces” or “has extended by law such 60-day period” or if Congress is not able to meet as a result of an armed attack on the United States.

Udall, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, supported President Obama’s initial decision to engage in a limited military operation in Libya to prevent an imminent humanitarian catastrophe. But more than 60 days after the President notified Congress of his intent to use military force, Udall believes the mission is now adrift and lacking direction.