Rose Pens Article: Why We Voted Against the War Powers Resolution
Reps. Max Rose (D-South Brooklyn, Staten Island) and Elaine Luria (D-VA) wrote a column in The New York Times titled Why We Voted Against the War Powers Resolution. In the article, Rose and his colleague in the House explain why they voted against their party on the war powers resolution legislation. Both Rose and Luria served in the U.S. military. They wrote:
“We voted against the War Powers Resolution that the House passed this week because it merely restated existing law. It addressed a de-escalated conflict with a symbolic vote that did more to distract than to fix the real challenges we face.
President Trump was within his right to order this attack and is now correctly de-escalating the conflict with the clear mandate that we must prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear capability.
While we respect our colleagues who serve our nation and supported this resolution, the debate Congress should have is not whether the president had the authority to carry out the Suleimani killing, but rather how we move forward as a governing body if we must commit forces in future sustained combat operations to protect our nation.
Our constituents sent us to Congress to do what is right, even when it is difficult. This transcends partisan politics. It’s about changing the way we engage in war and peace for decades to come. Now it is up to Congress to debate an A.U.M.F. that reflects the threats of today and tomorrow, not the forever wars of yesterday.”
Deutsch, Adams Applaud Plan to Install 100 Security Cameras in Brooklyn
Mayor de Blasio announced that the NYPD will be installing 100 new security cameras in Williamsburg, Crown Heights, and Borough Park. The surveying will begin immediately, and the first 30 cameras will be installed by March. The NYPD will work with community members to identify the best locations for the remaining 70 cameras with installation to follow for a total of 100 cameras.
Councilmember Chaim Deutsch (D-Brighton Beach, Gerritsen Beach, Gravesend, Manhattan Beach, Marine Park, Midwood, Plum Beach, Sheepshead Bay), Chairman of the NYC Council’s Jewish Caucus said, “Cameras are one of the most effective law enforcement tools at our disposal, particularly in regards to combating hate crimes. That’s why I joined with Councilman Kalman Yeger in allocating more than $2 million for cameras in our districts around houses of worship, parks, playgrounds, and schools. I am very pleased and grateful to learn that the Mayor is expanding this with 100 additional cameras, as well as new light towers, and the influx of 150 officers within these targeted communities. These are significant and vital resources in the fight against the hatred and antisemitism that has infiltrated our city.”
This announcement builds on the City’s ongoing efforts to prevent anti-Semitic hate crimes The NYPD has
increased deployment in these neighborhoods, and now have over 150 additional officers patrolling and building relationships in the community.
Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams said, “The weeds of hate will not be allowed to choke away the healthy garden of diversity in Brooklyn. We must use every tool in our toolbox to address the scourge of anti-Semitic assaults in our borough head-on. I support the installation of security cameras and an increased police presence in areas that are seeing the highest concentration of attacks, and look forward to working with Mayor de Blasio and Commissioner Shea to ensure we are taking appropriate steps to protect Orthodox communities throughout the city.”
Clarke Votes to Pass War Powers Resolution
U.S. Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-Crown Heights, Flatbush, East Flatbush, Brownsville, Sheepshead Bay) issued the following statement after last week’s vote in favor of a War Powers Resolution to limit President Trump’s military actions regarding Iran that
reiterates only Congress can declare war and affirms that Congress has not authorized the use of military force against Iran; it states that if no further Congressional action is taken, the Administration’s military hostilities with regard to Iran must end.
“As a Member of Congress, my first responsibility is to keep New Yorkers and the American people safe. “I have serious concerns about the Administration’s decision to engage in hostilities, its lack of strategy moving forward and its refusal to consult Congress or respect the war powers granted to us by the Constitution. That is why I joined my colleagues in the House to pass a War Powers Resolution to limit the President’s military actions regarding Iran. Congress has a solemn responsibility to protect American lives and values.”
