[Reily]

I agree that the Constitution does not specify a particular set of words.
However historical tradition has established a precedent of what a declaration of war should be.
A Congressional authorization of the use of force does not meet that standard. It’s merely acknowledgment from the legislature that we can defend ourselves, which is already one of the inherent powers constitution already provided to the executive branch. In short its Congress courageously saying yes we agree you can do what is already in your right to do ! Big Deal !

[null and void]

Then the left has fallen into a two jawed trap:

They accuse our troops of war crimes. No war, no war crimes. (atrocities maybe, but not war crimes)

AND

An acknowledgment from the legislature that we can defend ourselves is also an acknowledgment that Iraq was a threat.