CLARKE STATEMENT ON TRUMP AIRSTRIKES IN SYRIA

WASHINGTON, DC— Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement after President Trump launched a military strike against the Syrian government:

“Bashar al-Assad must be held accountable for his use of chemical weapons against civilians, however last night’s airstrikes were carried out without the authorization of the United States Congress. This is unacceptable. Congress, not the president, is responsible for debating and authorizing military action.

“The President must come to Congress to seek an Authorization of Use of Military Force and lay out to the nation a comprehensive strategy with clear objectives that keep our military safe, avoids collateral damage to innocent civilians, and keeps our country from another open-ended military conflict in the region.

“President Trump must also hold Putin accountable for his enabling of the Assad regime’s atrocities against the Syrian people.

“Congress must do its job. I call on Speaker Ryan to hold a debate and vote on an Authorization of Use of Military Force prior to any additional military action in Syria.”

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