Rhode Island congressman’s No Invading Allies Act also rules out Greenland and Panama Canal from hostile incursion
A new House of Representatives bill introduced last week would ensure U.S. President Donald Trump — or any sitting president — from using federal funds for a military invasion of Canada.
At least, not without Congress’ permission.
Regardless, Trump’s clear intentions of territorial expansion and willingness to use military force to achieve that goal “makes clear that he cannot be trusted with unchecked war powers,” according to Magaziner.
The U.S. Constitution dictates that only Congress has the authority to declare war on another country, but the 1973 War Powers Resolution allowed for presidents to engage in temporary hostilities for up to 60 days without Congressional approval.
Magaziner’s bill would reinforce Congress’ role by requiring the president to obtain either their blessing, a formal declaration of war or declaration of “a national emergency created by attack or imminent threat of attack” before U.S. Armed Forces could act against Canada or the other two territories.
The restrictions are to make sure the U.S. opposes territorial conflicts, respects alliances and “remains committed to a rules-based international order and democratic values.”
“President Trump should not be allowed to put American servicemembers into harm’s way by starting unnecessary wars with our allies,” Magaziner stated.
“My bill … makes clear that Congress will not allow the President to unilaterally drag us into unnecessary conflicts that do nothing to make Americans safer.”
Introduced Thursday, the bill cosponsored by eight Democrats — seven congresspeople and one D.C. delegate — has been referred to foreign affairs and armed services committees for review.
The House is currently narrowly controlled by the Republicans — 218 to the Dem’s 214 — so he will require their backing for his bill to pass.
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