Jacklyn Rocha

Political Science 1
July 3, 2014
Democrats are split on the issue of Obama and Iraq. Obama has stated to Congress that
he has no intention to speak to them first or seek any approval from them when it comes to
increasing military force in Iraq. He says the rebellion there is getting more out of hand, and it is
up to him to use his discretion to suppress it with whatever means he deems necessary. Although
President Obama is denying the possibility of sending the U.S. troops backs to the field, he
insisted that it is necessary to stabilize the country in order to protect American interests.
Many democrats are upset at this. Democratic representatives are saying that Congress
has a duty, and this duty is to check in on military operations. They say that they have the right to
step in on military matters. Others say that even though it is technically legal for the President to
just take action in military matters, Congress deserves to have a voice into what will happen.
Although Obama had told those at a press briefing that he would be consulting Congress
on military matters, the day before he said something different. In a white house meeting, Obama
had spoken to the top four Congress members about his plan. However, he told them that if he
decides to use force in Iraq, he will not be seeking the approval of Congress. They did not object
to this, either. They felt that this was apart of the presidents duties. They say Obama has the
authority to launch strikes in Iraq, and he can do this in order to protect our national security.
Even though the President is Commander in Chief, he should really go through the
process of seeking the input from Congress. Congress has to think about their constituents. Most
of their constituents would disapprove of having their family and friends being thrown back into
war. Our government is supposed to be representing the people, and if Obama is going against
Congresss wishes, he is also going against the wishes of the people. This is even worse for
something as big as military matters. This is why some representatives in Congress are going
through the process to try to put an end to Obamas military involvement in Iraq by creating new
amendments.
Lillis, Mike. "Liberal Dems question Obama on Iraq." The Hill. http://thehill.com/homenews/
house/210014-liberal-dems-question-obamas-authority-to-strike-iraq (accessed July 3, 2014).
Questions:
1) Is it justifiable for Obama to begin military strikes without the permission of Congress?
2) What do you think are Obamas motives for wanting to suppress the rebellion in Iraq? How
does the rebellion in Iraq effect the USA?