Afganistan did not stand alone. When we drove the scum out they went to Iraq for medical treatment and revival. The Northern part of the nation had its very own al Queda offshoot. If Paul does not understand this simple fact he is indeed unjustifiably ignorant.
There is no Constitutional format for a declaration of war. Congressional legislation approved the war. This is a deceptive objection. And I have heard him express other reservations most based upon an isolationist view of the world. Not a realistic one.
The same format as was used to enter WWII would suffice, something that would clearly STATE that a state of war existed between the United States and ____ (fill in the blank), which would also clearly and specifically say that the Congress, in passing the declaration of war, pledged the complete support of Congress and the Nation until victory was won. How hard would that be? Then it would all be right out in front with no room for dispute (by the Rats) or misconstruction by anyone else.
(May I respectfully suggest you add “rude” to your screen name?) (Also, “less than informed” might be indicated.)
The Founders left the issue specifically to Congress because they feared exactly what Truman gave us: the imperial presidency. They DIDN’T want the executive running around declaring war or even using troops for 60 days before seeking a declaration from Congress. The issue is for Congress and Congress alone to decide. They cannot constitutionally abdicate their authority and pass it to the presidency. Something called checks and balances, maybe you’ve heard of it.
“To declare war...” is pretty self explanatory.