Reference no: EM134026709

Background

In 1973, the U.S. Congress passed legislation called "The War Powers Resolution." This resolution has three provisions.

1. The president must consult with Congress before American troops are introduced into hostile situations and to continue this consultation as long as they are engaged in such situations.

2. In the absence of a declaration of war by Congress, the president must send a written report to Congress within forty-eight hours after American troops have been sent into threatened or actual war situations.

3. Within sixty days after the report has been submitted, the president must end the use of American armed forces unless Congress declares war or approves the military action. Congress can extend this period for an additional thirty days, if necessary, for the safe withdrawal of the troops. Congress can also halt the use of the troops before the end of the sixty-day period by adopting a concurrent resolution.

Even though this legislation is still "on the books" as official law, it has not been enforced. In this activity, we will debate this resolution. The debate question to address is: Should the United States enforce the War Powers Resolution? Explain your reasons.

Group B are Advisors to the U.S. President Against Enforcing the War Powers Resolution.

Argue that this War Powers Act should not be enforced, and that we would be better off if it were instead repealed.

If you are in a Group B:

You present your best arguments as to why the War Powers Resolution should not be enforced.

Try to give three arguments. Make it very clear what these three arguments are.