Reps. Mace, McGovern Introduce Bill to Restore Congress’ Oversight Power Of Use of Military Force

This bipartisan bill would reinforce the balance of power between the president and Congress by reclaiming congressional oversight of arms sales, emergency declarations, and the use of military force. In each case, the president would be required to consult congressional leaders and obtain congressional authorization before exercising the powers in question.

“It doesn’t matter what political party is in the White House, Congress must restore the powers granted to it by the Constitution, especially in matters of war,” said Representative Nancy Mace. “The American people are tired of endless foreign wars, and want to know they have a say via their elected representatives. This important piece of legislation goes a long way to restoring the authority the Founding Fathers gave Congress and ensuring our men and women who volunteer to serve and protect our nation are not needlessly sacrificed.”

“Allowing administration after administration – presidents from both sides of the aisle – to usurp Congressional authority on matters of national security without check is irresponsible. The Constitution of the United States is clear: the power to declare war rests solely with the Congress and it is crucial we reassert our body’s power to make the tough decisions about when, where, and how to put American troops in harm’s way,” said Representative Jim McGovern. “It’s important we come together in a bipartisan way to reclaim our role as a co-equal branch of government before it’s too late. That is what the National Security Reforms and Accountability Act aims to do.”