[d_focil]

Everyone seems to be so busy thinking about the latest apparent chemical weapons attack inside Syria and what to do about, that they are not even aware of the fact that Obama has no authority to launch a strike without congressional approval.

We know there are extremists among the rebels, and while tragic the situation is not directly affecting the US, why then are we on the brink of another war?

I wrote the linked article to spark some sort of debate, does anyone here think its actually a good idea to go into Syria at this point?

I think the powers that be are not really considering the need to follow up any strike with ground forces to secure the chemical weapons that could fall into the hands of AL-qaeda sympathizers if Assad falls. The mess we are heading into could make Iraq and Afghanistan seem like a training exercise.

[2ndDivisionVet]

After Greece, Korea, Vietnam, Panama, Desert Storm, Bosnia, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya and numerous other instances, isn't it a little late to be asking that question?

[Tilted Irish Kilt]

Not legally !!

But when has legality ever stopped him ?

[GeronL]

Because Congress is weak and has abdicated their powers and responsibilities

[Political Junkie Too]

Having a Nobel Peace Prize means never having to ask permission to go to war.

-PJ

[Tilted Irish Kilt]

Syria is Obama's War against Western Civilization"

He owns it !!

[mylife]

The same way as Libya and Egypt.

Poor ol George bush went through 9 months of international scrutiny and garnered international support before he lifted a finger in Iraq.

But George was a war monger /s

[Tzimisce]

Unfortunately, the rebels are KNOWN LIARS. Why are we even trusting their account?

Anyone remember the war in Syria a few years back when the media was posting pictures of a teddy bear laying in a blasted landscape...then some blogger pointed out that it was the exact same teddy bear in every pic?

[Eagles6]

Being unconstitutional didn't stop the war in Libya. The Republicans have no balls to stop him.

And no, getting involved in Syria is a very, very bad idea. With Russia, China and Iran willing to back Assad and soetoro gutting, neutering and homosexualizing the military it is supernova barfapalooza of an idea.

[Vince Ferrer]

How can Obama take us to war in Syria without asking congress?

Two easy steps:

1. Do it.

2. Dare Congress to impeach the first black president.

Has Obama and the Pentagon declared Congress ceremonial?

[tallyhoe]

Not to worry!!! His war is not really a war but maybe a Cruise Missile or two and a predator Drone strike!!! He would never launch an all out attack... Takes up two much of his precious time.. Why he needs to campaign and go on Vacation!

[chris37]

There is no such thing as congress.

[CMB_polarization]

Could we get 10 million to surround the Pentagon, White House and Congress in opposition to a war? It will take this to stop them.

[sten]

he needs a distraction... so... he’s going to kill tens of thousands of people

[VerySadAmerican]

He can do it because there’s no one in DC to tell him he can’t. All he feels he needs is John McCain’s support. And he has that.

[dalereed]

Just call it a police action, no congressional approval needed.

[Lera]

He can do it because the War Powers Act lets him as long as he doesn’t stay there more than 60 days he does not need Congress to approve it.

Now had congress originally done their job he wouldn’t be able to do this because he wouldn’t be the commander in chief

[laweeks]

How can an illegal alien living in our White House continue to pretend he’s president? And how can the incredibly damn Stupid Party continue to allow this to happen?

[Vendome]

He can do whatever he wants for 60 days before seeking Congressional approval.

Ain’t right and we should leave Assay alone but, he can do that.

[jamaksin]

The last formal Declaration of War by the United States, as required by the Constitution of the United States, was on June 5, 1942. Then the United States declared war against Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania.

Recall the Korean War? That did not "need" a formal declaration as it was a "police action" under that flag of the nascent United States (think "blue helmets).

[ScottinVA]

Constitutionally, yes, he must go through Congress, but the GOP’s get-along gang long ago surrendered its authority and gave Obama carte blanche to sidestep them. He didn’t get Congress’ approval for overthrowing Khadafy in Libya, and he won’t bother getting it here.

Obama rules by degree.. that’s how kings operate.