[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 120 (Friday, September 14, 2001)]
[House]
[Pages H5638-H5681]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
AUTHORIZING USE OF UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES AGAINST THOSE RESPONSIBLE
FOR RECENT ATTACKS AGAINST THE UNITED STATES
Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, at this historic moment when Congress
and the American people stand united behind the President, our
Commander in Chief, as America prepares to reclaim its security and
punish the murderers who struck our Nation this week, I ask unanimous
consent that it shall be in order at any time without intervention of
any point of order to consider in the House, House Joint Resolution 64,
to authorize the use of United States Armed Forces against those
responsible for the recent attacks launched against the United States;
The joint resolution shall be considered as read; the previous
question shall be considered as ordered on the joint resolution to
final passage without intervening motion except, one, 5 hours of debate
on the joint resolution, equally divided and controlled by the chairman
and ranking minority member of the Committee on International
Relations; and two, one motion to recommit; and, upon passage of the
joint resolution, the House shall be considered to have passed Senate
Joint Resolution 23.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to the previous order of the House, I
call up the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 64) to authorize the use of
United States Armed Forces against those responsible for the recent
attacks launched against the United States, and ask for its immediate
consideration in the House.
The Clerk read the title of the joint resolution.
The text of H.J. Res. 64 is as follows:
H.J. Res. 64
Whereas, on September 11, 2001, acts of treacherous
violence were committed against the United States and its
citizens; and
Whereas, such acts render it both necessary and appropriate
that the United States exercise its rights to self-defense
and to protect United States citizens both at home and
abroad; and
Whereas, in light of the threat to the national security
and foreign policy of the United States posed by these grave
acts of violence; and
Whereas, such acts continue to pose an unusual and
extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign
policy of the United States; and
Whereas, the President has authority under the Constitution
to take action to deter and prevent acts of international
terrorism against the United States: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This joint resolution may be cited as the ``Authorization
for Use of Military Force''.
SEC. 2. AUTHORIZATION FOR USE OF UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES.
(a) In General.--That the President is authorized to use
all necessary and appropriate force against those nations,
organizations, or persons he determines planned, authorized,
committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on
September 11, 2001, or harbored such organizations or
persons, in order to prevent any further acts of
international terrorism against the United States by such
nations, organizations or persons.
(b) War Powers Resolution Requirements.--
(1) Specific statutory authorization.--Consistent with
section 8(a)(1) of the War Powers Resolution, the Congress
declares that this section is intended to constitute specific
statutory authorization within the meaning of section 5(b) of
the War Powers Resolution.
(2) Applicability of other requirements.--Nothing in this
resolution supercedes any requirement of the War Powers
Resolution.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde) and
the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) each will control 2\1/2\
hours.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde).
General Leave
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may
have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and
include extraneous material on the legislation under consideration.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from Illinois?
There was no objection.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield such time as he may
consume to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hastert), the distinguished
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Mr. HASTERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois for
yielding time to me.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution, which authorizes
the President to use all force necessary to bring to justice those
nations, operations, and people responsible for the cowardly act that
was perpetrated upon this Nation on September 11, 2001.
The Constitution of the United States, the document that protects the
freedoms of all Americans, gives the Congress certain responsibilities.
Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution says the Congress shall have
power to provide for the common defense and the power to declare war.
Earlier today, the Congress exercised its responsibility to provide
for the common defense by passing the supplemental spending
legislation. Now we give the President the congressional authority to
use all necessary force to bring to justice those who attacked our
Nation.
This is the most solemn responsibility that this Congress can
undertake. We do not do so gladly or with a bitter sense of revenge. We
do so because we must in order to preserve freedom and democracy in
this Nation.
These are the times that try men's souls. On September 11, we lost
thousands of people, with thousands more injured, and with two symbols
of the strength and vitality of our democracy, the World Trade Center
and the Pentagon, destroyed or badly damaged.
A sworn enemy that dares not confront us in the open attacked us in
the most cowardly way, by targeting innocent citizens of this great
Nation. This enemy operates in the shadows, hates with an unnatural
passion, and practices political fanaticism that glorifies violent
death and condemns innocent life.
For too long, this enemy has been protected and supported and
sheltered by rogue nations. The friends of our enemies are also our
enemies, and they
[[Page H5639]]
will bear equal responsibility. We must defend our Nation. We must
defeat these enemies once and for all. We must eliminate the scourge of
terrorism.
This will be the great challenge for our generation. It may take
years. It may cost additional lives. It may require greater sacrifices
for our citizens. But great challenges have made us stronger in the
past. On July 4, 1776, our Founding Fathers decided to challenge
tyranny. After we won our freedom, we constructed the world's greatest
constitution, and created a stable, thriving democracy.
We faced dark days when our Nation was torn asunder in the Civil War,
and we came together after that war between the States to become the
savior of Europe in the First World War.
The empire of Japan deliberately attacked us on December 7, 1941, and
we emerged as the greatest defender of the free world.
We faced down communism in a painful Cold War and emerged as the
world's sole superpower.
Now, after this greatest of American tragedies that we have faced
here on American soil, we face the greatest of challenges.
I am comforted by the work of the President and his team. They are
assembling a worldwide coalition of civilized nations. These nations
look to the United States for leadership, and they want to join us in
this great crusade. We will provide that leadership.
We have a job to do in this Congress, and this authorization for the
use of force is an important part of that responsibility.
I ask my colleagues to vote for this authorization and to join with
me in supporting our President, in supporting our Constitution, and in
supporting the American way of life.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, this is a fateful moment in our Nation's history and in
the history of this Chamber. Once again, we have been awakened to the
reality that we have mortal enemies. They do not desire compromise.
They are not interested in negotiation. Our suffering does not give
them human pause. Indeed, they celebrated. They do not seek our mere
defeat. They are intent on our destruction.
The demonic horror of these deliberate attacks remains inconceivable,
but we have no choice except to accept that it is real nonetheless. Our
enemies' message was stark and inescapable. They will make war on all
of us wherever we exist for as long as we exist.
The orchestrators would not have ordered these actions if they did
not believe that they themselves would survive, that they would
celebrate in triumph. I fear they have judged our failure to render
justice for their past atrocities as weakness and as an invitation to
even greater assaults. We must correct this misperception, not with
words but with acts.
No creed which revels in the slaughter of innocents can be included
in the human community. No cause which aligns itself with evil can be
allowed to exist among us. Toleration of such things not only invites
our own destruction, it is a mortal sin.
Those who hate us believe that a free people cannot defend
themselves. They assure themselves that we will falter in the difficult
task before us. Our self-proclaimed enemies will seize upon any
weakness of resolve on our part. As long as they believe that there are
divisions among us, as long as they expect our course of action to be
indecisive and incomplete, they will have hope of success.
We must deny them that hope. Our forefathers, who won our liberty,
bequeathed it to us in the knowledge that to keep it we would have to
prove ourselves worthy of it. They were confident that we would not
shrink from the measures necessary to defend it. All who have gone
before us, all who have given their lives for their country are
witnesses to us here today. That is why I ask my colleagues to put
aside our differences and move beyond rhetoric and now act.
During the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln reminded his countrymen of
their responsibility with these words: ``We cannot escape history. The
fiery trial through which we pass will light us down, in honor or
dishonor, to the latest generation.''
It is a profound thing that a free people go to war. That is why we,
the Nation's elected representatives assemble in Congress, meet today,
for we share with the President the responsibility for ensuring that
our country is protected, that our people remain safe.
Therefore, we as Members of Congress now have a duty to perform. We
must grant the President the fullest authority to employ all of the
resources of the United States, to make war on our enemy, to destroy
their ability to harm us and to defend our beloved country.
In an earlier hour of trial for our Nation, Julia Ward Howe was
inspired to write the words that became known as the Battle Hymn of the
Republic. We ask God once again to ``loose the faithful lightning of
his terrible swift sword'' against the enemies of our country and of
mankind.
America has always triumphed over her enemies; and with God's help,
we will do so again.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I rise in strong support of this resolution.
This week our Nation lost its innocence but found a new sense of
unity and purpose. We now face a severe test, one demanding severe
measures. The resolution before us empowers the President to bring to
bear the full force of American power abroad in our struggle against
the scourge of international terrorism. It will enable him, in the
words of our Secretary of State, to eradicate terrorism, ``root and
branch.''
The President currently has many powers to deter and prevent
international terrorism, including diplomatic pressure, economic
measures, military action to stop imminent threats to the people of the
United States. Our resolution arms the President with the certain
knowledge that he has the full support of the united Congress and the
American people in exercising these powers.
{time} 1800
In considering this resolution, Mr. Speaker, the historic nature of
this occasion cannot be overstated. Precious few times in our 225 years
as a Nation have we been faced with such a grave and momentous
decision. One need only look at the devastation, the broken bodies, the
flood of tears left in the wake of Tuesday's monstrous terrorist
attacks to grasp the awesome responsibility before us.
Mr. Speaker, the world is watching these deliberations and is asking:
Is the United States up to the challenge? Are we, as a Nation, blessed
for so much of our history with peace and prosperity, capable of
mounting a costly and concerted campaign against international terror?
Let us today answer those doubts with a resounding affirmation.
In committing to this fight, let us not delude ourselves. We are
embarking on a long and difficult struggle, like none other in our
Nation's history. It will demand resolve. It will demand patience. It
will demand sacrifice. It will also demand that we draw upon the
strength of each and every American.
I am deeply concerned, Mr. Speaker, by reports of violence directed
at Arab-Americans and Muslim-Americans, some in my own district. This
is not a clash of civilizations or a war between the Western and the
Islamic world, as some would have it. It is a struggle for the survival
of civilization itself against barbarism.
In this struggle, Mr. Speaker, we are not alone. All Americans deeply
appreciate the many expressions of sympathy and support from our
friends and allies across the globe. We trust that these words will be
followed by actions--actions that may prove painful, costly and
dangerous. But in the fight against international terrorism, there can
be no neutrals. Those who are not with us are against us.
Today's debate is a sign of the unity and vitality of our democracy.
All among us are united in our outrage by the tragic events of this
week. All among us are united in our commitment to defeat international
terrorism. On this we stand undivided and indivisible. If we are to
defeat international terrorism, as we must, we must provide our
commander in chief with the power this resolution entails.
[[Page H5640]]
In granting the President this power, Congress is not abdicating its
prerogatives. We do not weaken our role by approving this measure. By
signaling our solidarity with the President and by trusting him with
this power, we take our place at his side as full partners in this
fight.
The President has a solemn responsibility to use this power wisely
and to consult with and report to the Congress throughout the long
struggle ahead. We in Congress also have an ongoing responsibility: to
contribute to these efforts, monitoring the crisis, investigating its
causes, gathering expert insights, and doing all in our power to ensure
that these terrible events are never repeated.
Mr. Speaker, I am an American not by birth but by choice. Following
the Second World War, I fled my native Hungary for the United States,
the land of the free and the home of the brave. I chose to become a
citizen of the Nation that saved my homeland and the entire world from
international fascism and, later, from international communism. Today,
I proudly reaffirm my allegiance and reenlist in the new struggle to
save this Nation and the world from international terrorism.
I have never been prouder to serve in the United States Congress than
I have during this week. The many words spoken on the floor of this
Chamber echo the world over and testify to America's resilience in the
face of adversity. All of my colleagues who join this debate do honor
to this institution and to the American people, whom we all serve.
But the time for words has passed, Mr. Speaker, and the time for
action is upon us. We must now make our rhetoric reality. We must now
stand united in word and in deed, and we shall not flinch in the face
of terror. Let us go forth, certain in our knowledge that should we
cast this courageous vote.
We shall prevail.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the learned
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Paul), but would like to first congratulate
the distinguished minority leader of this committee, the gentleman from
California (Mr. Lantos), for his usual superb remarks.
Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me this
time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. Sadly, we find
ourselves today dealing with a responsibility to provide national
security under the most difficult of circumstances. To declare war
against a group that is not a country makes the clear declaration of
war more complex.
The best tool the framers of the Constitution provided under these
circumstances was the power of Congress to grant letters of mark and
reprisal in order to narrow the retaliation to only the guilty parties.
The complexity of the issue, the vagueness of the enemy, and the
political pressure to respond immediately limits our choices. The
proposed resolution is the only option we are offered, and doing
nothing is unthinkable.
There are a couple of serious points I would like to make. For the
critics of our policy of foreign intervention in the affairs of others,
the attack on New York and Washington was not a surprise, and many have
warned of its inevitability. It so far has been inappropriate to ask
why the U.S. was the target and not some other Western country. But for
us to pursue a war against our enemies, it is crucial to understand why
we were attacked, which will then tell us by whom we were attacked.
Without this knowledge, striking out at six or eight or 10 countries
will not help.
Without this knowledge, striking out at six or eight or even ten
different countries could well expand this war of which we wanted no
part. Without defining the enemy there is no way to know our precise
goal nor to know when the war is over. Inadvertent or casual acceptance
of civilian deaths as part of this war I'm certain will prolong the
agony and increase the chances of even more American casualties. We
must guard against this if at all possible.
Too often over the last several decades we have supported both sides
of many wars only to find ourselves needlessly entrenched in conflicts
unrelated to our national security. It is not unheard of that the
weapons and support we send to foreign nations have ended up being used
against us. The current crisis may well be another example of such a
mishap.
Although we now must fight to preserve our national security, we
should not forget that the founders of this great nation advised that
for our own sake we should stay out of entangling alliances and the
affairs of other nations.
We are placing tremendous trust in our President to pursue our
enemies as our commander-in-chief but Congress must remain vigilant as
to not allow our civil liberties here at home to be eroded. The
temptation will be great to sacrifice our freedoms for what may seem to
be more security. We must resist this temptation.
Mr. Speaker we must rally behind our President, pray for him to make
wise decisions, and hope that this crisis is resolved a lot sooner than
is now anticipated.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to our
distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Hoeffel).
Mr. HOEFFEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this
time.
Mr. Speaker, it is very appropriate for this Congress to be granting
specific authority to the President to use all necessary and
appropriate force against the terrorists that attacked America this
week and against those that harbored the terrorists. It is important, I
believe, to note that this grant of authority and this purpose of force
is to prevent any future acts of international terrorism against the
United States. In other words, we are not just engaging in an act of
retaliation or revenge, as satisfying as that will be, but we are
taking action to prevent this from happening again to save the lives of
Americans.
The use of force that we authorize today must be used swiftly and
surely and smartly. It has been said that this force should be used
ferociously. And that is a strong word but an appropriate word under
these circumstances. We need to punish the perpetrators of this
terrorist activity. We must prevent a recurrence, and we must protect
Americans.
It may be we do not need to grant this authority. Under the War
Powers Act, the President has the ability to use force when America is
attacked, as we have been this week. But it is good for Congress to add
our voice of support and to specifically grant this authority to the
President.
We must be targeted and accurate. We must spare innocent civilians,
but we must act and act firmly. We must also be ready to use diplomacy,
to build a worldwide coalition to combat terrorism, to lead the charge,
to unite the democratic governments that oppose terrorism and those
authoritarian governments that also oppose terrorism. We need to
provide that leadership. This is our opportunity.
We need to make sure that we fight the terrorists and not the Islamic
world. Most of the Islamic world agrees with us in opposition to
terrorism. If we are creative and sensible, this can be the beginning
of the end of international terrorism.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Diaz-Balart), a distinguished member of the
Committee on Rules.
Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, this great Nation is a Nation made from
many origins but with a national identity and a national cohesion, a
nationhood, which is almost unprecedented in the history of the world.
Yet American patriotism is not threatening to others. Americans seek to
do no harm to the rest of the world. Quite the contrary. Repeatedly,
Americans have gone to the aid of others whose sovereignty and freedom
have been kidnapped by tyrants.
America is a peaceful and free Nation; and we intend to pass on that
peace and freedom to our children so that they, in turn, may bequeath
it to their children.
America is free and secure because each generation has made certain
to preserve our freedom and our security for the next generation. There
can be no freedom without security, just as security without freedom is
the essence of dictatorship, something that this Nation, thanks be to
God, has never known and will never know.
It is now this generation's turn, Mr. Speaker, this generation's
responsibility to preserve freedom and security for our posterity, and
our commander in chief, our Armed Forces, and this entire Nation will
not fail.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from Oregon (Mr.
[[Page H5641]]
Blumenauer), a distinguished member of the Committee on International
Relations.
Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me
this time.
Last Tuesday, war was declared, not just on the United States but on
civilized people everywhere. The American people were instantly united
and resolved around this challenge. This resolution this evening is
another step in the long struggle for the American people to see that
their Nation's leadership is equal to this challenge.
While I am one who believes that the American President has these
powers and more, there is a chance here to jointly define the
challenge. There is an opportunity for Congress and the administration,
people in both parties, to be very clear about what our challenge is
and what we are going to do.
Our Nation has never quite undertaken this issue in quite the same
way. We can avoid the problems of the past. We saw in the Spanish-
American War we had the wrong cause for the wrong war. During World War
II, we saw our government commit, sadly, acts against the civil
liberties of Japanese-American citizens. I think we have learned from
those experiences in the past.
I am hopeful this resolution will be the first step for more direct
actions that will be inclusive, inclusive here on Capitol Hill,
inclusive of citizens around the country, inclusive with our friends
and allies abroad, and, indeed, with some countries with whom we may
not have the warmest of relations; but we are all united in this effort
to protect the rights of many men and women in civilized countries
everywhere.
I hope this is a beginning of an effort to show that we Americans are
equal to the challenge and that we are going to lead it in a way that
is going to help spare other people around the world from the terror of
these dark and sinister forces.
{time} 1815
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Norwood).
(Mr. NORWOOD asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. NORWOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to fully endorse and
authorize the use of force as directed by the President of this great
Nation.
Now is the time to lead the most extensive campaign again terrorism
this world has ever seen, to annihilate those sources of hatred and
terror, to break any nation assisting them in their efforts, to cleanse
the Earth of this entire breed.
Mr. President, no matter where we have to go, no matter how long we
have to fight, we are prepared to fulfill our duty to generations to
come, for them to live in a world free of terrorism. Our mission is of
the grandest kind and must be resolved on the grandest scale.
Our Nation will not cower from this fight. We will march into the
lion's den and slay this pride. No mistake about it, we are fighting
for our lives and livelihoods and we will prevail.
To say it in a way that perhaps Osama bin Laden might understand and
other terrorist groups, I ask them to hear me tonight. We are coming
after them and the fury of hell is coming with us.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from
California (Mr. George Miller), the ranking member of the Committee on
Education and the Workforce.
Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, the other night I had
the honor of joining you at the prayer service in the rotunda of this
great building, this great monument, this beacon of our democracy and
our freedoms to the world. As I sat there, I thought about the fact
that this building may very well have been a target on that sad day.
As I looked around, I thought what a tragedy it would be if this
building had been leveled by that terrorist act. Then I thought more as
I listened to those who spoke so eloquently from both sides of the
aisle and our religious leaders. I thought it is really not about
buildings. It is really not about monuments. It is about the American
people.
The action that was taken by these terrorists against the American
people must be responded to and it must be responded to with resolution
in a most comprehensive fashion. It cannot be a symbolic act. It cannot
be a one-time action. It must be comprehensive. We must be diligent and
the American people must be patient.
This is very difficult and it is very different than the forces of
power we have authorized in the past where many times enemies were
clear. Here there are subtleties and complexities and organizational
complexes that defy much of our thinking. We will have some successes
and we will have some failures. But we must do this because we must
understand that the enemy here made a conscious and intentional
decision to slaughter innocent people.
They put people randomly, randomly in harm's way and killed them in a
most arbitrary of fashions, in a manner which overwhelmed our senses
and stunned our Nation. We must understand we have an obligation to the
American people to take that action.
I would hope as we do that, the people in this country would have
patience with one another; that they would recognize that when the
airplane slammed into those buildings, it killed Muslims and Christians
and Jews and Asians and Italians and Irish and all the rest. It killed
the landscape of the American society. When we do this, we must
understand that we cannot lose that national character, which is truly
our liberties and freedoms that are the beacon, the light that goes out
from this building to those people in those nations that yearn for them
and do not have them.
I wish our President well. I wish our armed services well in this
effort, and I ask the American people for their understanding in the
complex nature of the force we are authorizing here today.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Boehner).
Mr. BOEHNER. Mr. Speaker, until tonight the most important vote that
I had cast as a Member of this body was the vote that I cast in 1991 to
support then President George Bush in our Gulf War. Now we are at
another grave moment of decision for our Nation.
This is a tragedy of unspeakable proportions. We grieve for all of
those who have been affected by this horror.
After Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, Melville wrote a poem that
expresses as best we can the force of our emotion in the wake of this
horror. He wrote, ``There is a sobbing of the strong, and a pall upon
the land. But the people in their weeping bare the iron hand. Beware
the people weeping when they bare the iron hand.''
The cowards who planned and executed the attack and any state that
harbors them should be aware and beware of our iron hand, because they
will pay.
As a Congress we will lock arms, we will rally behind our President
and we will confront terror as one, because freedom will prevail.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Florida (Mr. Davis).
Mr. DAVIS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
resolution authorizing the President to use military force against
those responsible for the horrific acts committed on Tuesday of this
week.
Mr. President, we are wholeheartedly entrusting you with the most
powerful military the world has ever known. We are doing so because we
trust him to use this force with certainty, with swiftness, with
judiciousness, and firmly, to make it perfectly clear that this country
and the world will not tolerate again what happened on Tuesday.
Mr. President, I want to encourage you to continue to work closely
with Congress. This is not just your travails you face. These are our
travails. These are the travails of the entire country. Mr. President,
we will work together with you to help you succeed because your success
will be our success as a country.
There are Members of Congress, Democrat and Republican, who are
anxious to work with you to address the very difficult details in terms
of the military issues, the diplomatic issues, the economic issues, the
judicial issues we all face as we launch into this new stage in
fighting terrorism.
Mr. President, we support you this evening, and we look forward to
continuing to work closely with you.
[[Page H5642]]
Announcement by the Speaker
The SPEAKER. The Chair would advise all Members to address the Chair
and not the President directly.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Virginia (Mr. Cantor).
Mr. CANTOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution.
On Tuesday, unspeakable acts of violence were committed against
innocent Americans. As we mourn the loss of these Americans, we stand
united behind our President. I send my condolences to the families that
are suffering.
I am inspired by those who have given of themselves to assist the
victims of this attack. Civilized society has long sought to end the
use of violence, but the perpetrators of terrorism and states that
harbor them are the enemies of civilized society. They only understand
the use of force, and the time has come to speak to them on their
terms.
Today we will authorize the United States to strike out against this
enemy. It will be a determined effort, sustained over time with the
full support and resources of this Nation. Let our enemies know that we
stand together, one Nation under God, prepared to pay the price to
bring terrorism to its knees, the price of freedom.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from the
District of Columbia (Ms. Norton).
Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I have always opposed the wholesale use of
our mighty military power except with a scalpel. However, I have always
assumed that my country would never be attacked where we live and that
my constituents and neighbors would never be innocent victims.
Mr. Speaker, the language before us is limited only by the slim
anchor of its September 11 reference, but allows war against any and
all prospective persons and entities. This resolution shows that the
challenges presented by terrorism as war have already begun with
language before there is any action.
The point is to give the President the authority to do what he has to
do, not whatever he wants to do. But the truth is that under our
Constitution and existing law, when the country is attacked, the
President's power is almost limitless.
In supporting his constitutional authority to protect our great
country, Congress must remain vigilant to ensure that his power is
always sufficient but never unchecked.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Missouri (Mr. Blunt).
Mr. BLUNT. Mr. Speaker, as I listened the other day to my colleagues
respond on their own, away from this building, to what had happened, I
noticed two overriding themes. One was in a free society that stands as
a symbol for freedom of the world, we are uniquely open to the kind of
cowardly acts that happened this week.
The second was that our only real safeguard against those kinds of
acts, no matter how much we might attempt with funding of our efforts
to see that they never occur, our only true safeguard was to make
certain that the people who planned, who perpetrated, who helped
finance, who sheltered those who did any of those things, paid such an
incredible price that they would not be willing to disrupt the freedom
of the United States of America.
This resolution ensures that the President has the support of the
Congress as he does everything possible to see that that price would be
paid. It is a price that must be paid. We must move forward. I urge my
colleagues to vote for the resolution.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from
California (Mr. Sherman), a distinguished member of the Committee on
International Relations.
(Mr. SHERMAN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker I thank the gentleman for yielding me this
time.
Mr. Speaker, in certain foreign cities there were those who danced in
the streets believing that the terrorists' ability to kill thousands of
American civilians showed the terrorists' strength. America's strength
is not our ability to kill civilians, but our great strength is that we
do everything possible to avoid killing civilians.
We must remember that our conflict is not with Islam and not with
Muslims. The last three military campaigns of the United States were to
protect Muslim people in Bosnia, in Kosovo and in Kuwait.
For years we have urged our allies to join us in curtailing
investments and aid to countries that support terrorism. Now we must
insist that they join us in this effort. Those who claim to be
America's friends can no longer do business as usual with countries
that support terrorism, nor can we allow European bank secrecy laws to
stand in our way of tracing the money that was spent on this horrendous
action.
We must wage a war against all of the well-organized, well-financed
terrorist groups who have dedicated themselves to killing Americans.
Chief among this group is the one headed by Osama bin Laden. He is
probably responsible for the atrocities of September 11, and certainly
responsible for the attack on the USS Cole in Yemen and the attack on
our embassies in East Africa. As long as the Taliban government in
Afghanistan harbors Osama bin Laden, he will be working every day to
top the evil of September 11.
Mr. Speaker, it is easy to blame our intelligence agencies for what
happened, but as long as we have allowed Osama bin Laden and others to
sit there in safety, launching attack after attack against America,
some of those attacks will be successful. We must demand that the
Taliban government hand Osama bin Laden and his henchmen over to us now
and stop harboring terrorists. If they refuse, then we must initiate
hostilities. We will prevail by aligning ourselves with the Northern
Alliance. Hostilities with the Taliban may involve American casualties,
but failure to act will involve thousands and tens of thousands of
American casualties.
{time} 1830
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Callahan).
(Mr. CALLAHAN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. CALLAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the authorization for
the use of military force. There are no words to describe the anguish
we and all Americans feel. Our national spirit has been dampened but
not extinguished by the despicable acts of September 11. President Bush
has reassured Americans that while those who detest freedom may destroy
brick and mortar and even take the lives of innocents, they cannot
destroy the American will. We can take comfort and confidence in our
national resolve and depend on that to help us overcome this temporary
setback.
Clearly, we must rally around our President. We must support his
efforts and make crystal clear the fact that the American people are
united and resolute that we will take a stand against attacks on our
sovereignty and that we will avenge this grievous act.
It is an American characteristic to unify in times of crisis. It is
important to stand behind our President by authorizing the use of
military force against those forces of evil. I am comforted to know
that this body will pass this use of force resolution, probably
unanimously, later today.
I am sure that the entire membership of this body joins me in praying
for God to guide us and our President.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to my
valued colleague, the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee), a member
of the Committee on International Relations.
Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank our ranking member and my
friend for yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today really with a very heavy heart, one that is
filled with sorrow for the families and the loved ones who were killed
and injured this week. Only the most foolish and the most callous would
not understand the grief that has really gripped our people and
millions across the world.
This unspeakable act on the United States has forced me, however, to
rely on my moral compass, my conscience, and my God for direction.
September 11 changed the world. Our deepest fears now haunt us. Yet I
am convinced that
[[Page H5643]]
military action will not prevent further acts of international
terrorism against the United States. This is a very complex and
complicated matter.
This resolution will pass, although we all know that the President
can wage a war even without it. However difficult this vote may be,
some of us must urge the use of restraint. Our country is in a state of
mourning. Some of us must say, let us step back for a moment. Let us
just pause for a minute and think through the implications of our
actions today so that this does not spiral out of control.
I have agonized over this vote, but I came to grips with it today and
I came to grips with opposing this resolution during the very painful
yet very beautiful memorial service. As a member of the clergy so
eloquently said, ``As we act, let us not become the evil that we
deplore.''
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Kerns).
(Mr. KERNS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. KERNS. I thank the gentleman from Illinois for yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this resolution to use
force.
Earlier this week, war was declared on America. Out of the horror and
carnage, America has risen united, resolved to bring justice to all
those responsible for this evil act. The resolution before us today
authorizes the use of force against those who planned, authorized,
committed or aided the deadliest attack ever on U.S. soil.
While I strongly support today's resolution in response to the
specific attacks that occurred on September 11, I believe that we will
have to take additional action to address future threats. This must
only be the beginning of a comprehensive war on terrorism.
In 1795, British statesman Edmund Burke said, ``All that is necessary
for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.'' The same holds
true today. The free nations of the world must seize this opportunity
and work together to end the evil of terrorism. As the rock of freedom
in the world, America must lead the charge.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Napolitano), a distinguished member
of the Committee on International Relations.
Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend for yielding
time, and I join my colleagues in support of this resolution
authorizing the use of military force. Our American public and the free
world look to us today for leadership and swift action. We cannot and
we will not fail them. The sheer horror of the events that transpired
in New York and the Pentagon are unprecedented in our history and they
demand strong, decisive and deliberate action. Anything less is an
abrogation of our responsibility as congressional leaders and would be
interpreted by those who have utter disdain for our country, for our
institutions, and for our people as a failure of resolve and the
ultimate sign of weakness.
Our enemies, whoever and wherever they are, and those who harbor
them, must clearly understand that we will never tolerate the acts of
terrorism, acts of war, that have been perpetrated upon us and they
must understand that there is no escape from American justice.
Inaction is capitulation. Of one thing I am certain, we as Americans
will never capitulate to terrorism or to any interest that looks to
destroy our Nation. There comes a time when action and force become an
absolute necessity. The families of those who died in this unspeakable
horror, mothers, fathers, children, old and young, deserve to know that
they did not die in vain. From this day forward we are a wiser, changed
people, stronger, more united, firm in our commitment to our
government, our country, our freedom, and to justice. Fear must not be
allowed to rule us.
God bless America.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the learned
gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Isakson).
Mr. ISAKSON. I thank the distinguished chairman for yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, the book of Ecclesiastes tells us that for everything
there is a time; a time for love, a time for hate.
On Tuesday morning, an expression of hate, unbelievable and
unparalleled in all of our lifetimes, took place as Americans were used
as instruments against Americans in a horrible toll of life and
tragedy. On behalf of the sixth district of the State of Georgia and
the United States of America, I rise in support of a resolution to give
our President the full authority to respond and act to this act of hate
and violence.
Mr. Speaker, the last thing I did before I walked to this Chamber was
to call Brandi Unger, 13 years old, in Roswell, Georgia, to thank her
for the letter she sent to me and the President and the handful of
dollars she raised this past week to help America to fight this evil.
Mr. Speaker, when my father's generation, America's greatest
generation, fought and defeated the evil of the 1940s, they did it for
us; and we have enjoyed peace and prosperity. Today, we do it for the
Brandi Ungers of the next generation, for a free, a safe America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the
gentleman from California (Mr. Berman), a valued senior member of the
Committee on International Relations.
Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. There
are many facets of it, but I would only like to focus on one. We know
the hijackers had ties to Osama bin Laden and his al Qaeda
organization. We must do whatever it takes, including the use of
military force, to track down bin Laden and destroy his organization.
But this is not just about bin Laden. There are other radical groups
that engage in terrorism, including Hezbollah, Hamas, Islamic Jihad. To
win the war against terrorism, we must eliminate the entire
infrastructure that sustains these organizations. This will involve
getting tough with governments that aid and harbor terrorists.
Syria allows Hezbollah to operate freely in southern Lebanon. Iran
recently hosted a terrorist summit and routinely provides arms and
ammunition and other assistance to Hezbollah and other radical groups.
Bin Laden is a guest of the Taliban regime. The suicide bombers of
Islamic Jihad and Hamas are nurtured by the Palestinian Authority.
The time has come for these and other governments to make a
fundamental choice: Will they continue to support those responsible for
taking the lives of thousands of innocent men, women, and children? Or
will they realize the error of their ways and end their financing, the
facilitating, the harboring of terrorists and their organizational
infrastructures and their state-sponsored incitement of terrorist
attacks? For if they choose to continue their present course, they are
not states of concern, they are not rogue states, they are America's
enemies.
I applaud the administration's efforts to assemble an international
coalition to fight terrorism. We have a real opportunity to make the
world safer for freedom and democracy.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Tauzin).
Mr. TAUZIN. Mr. Speaker, this is the second time in my tenure in this
body that we are called upon to vote to commit the sons and daughters
in the uniform of this country to war, to put their lives on the line
for this country again, and this is indeed a profound moment in the
history of this Chamber.
We should ask ourselves carefully why we do this. Do we do it just in
anger, just for revenge? No greater authority than St. Thomas Aquinas
taught me as a young lad the meaning and the understanding, the
definition of self-defense. Our greatest duty under the Constitution is
to protect and defend the citizens of this country from all enemies,
both foreign and domestic. It is for that reason we rise in support of
this resolution.
We have literally in this world allowed terrorism to exist too long.
We have been on the defensive too long. We have taken too many body
blows. It is time civilized man goes on the offensive.
Today, we go on the offensive. And we commit our sons and daughters
to that enormous chore. This week, a reporter caught a citizen in New
York taking dust off a car and putting it into a jar and he asked, ``Is
that your
[[Page H5644]]
car?'' The citizen said, ``No. These are my friends. We have lost our
friends.''
It is time to put an end to this madness.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the
distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa).
Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
resolution. War has been declared on this country. Today we must
answer. Without warning or provocation on September 11, a deliberate
attack was launched, using hijacked planes with innocent American
civilians to kill other innocent American civilians and military
personnel.
Unlike the terrorists who attacked the innocent, our response will be
against the guilty. The U.S. Constitution carefully divides the power
to wage war between Congress and the President. I am confident that the
resolution before us today strikes the appropriate balance between the
President and Congress. It gives the President flexibility as Commander
in Chief to conduct military operations as he sees fit, but it also
requires the President to consult and report to Congress. It retains
the important 60-day limit on military action without further
congressional approval.
Make no mistake, this Congress and the American people are committed
to seeing this war through to the end. We realize that we are in for a
long fight, but Congress needs to take seriously its responsibility to
authorize the continued use of force and not give up its rights to the
President. Our Founding Fathers created this separation of powers for
an important reason, and their ideals have served us well for the last
230 years.
Today, we join together in a day of mourning and remembrance for
those we have lost. We pledge our best effort to hunt down those
responsible. We owe no less to those whose blood has been shed again
for the cause of freedom.
I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.
{time} 1845
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from California (Mr. Hunter).
Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, we are giving the President the power to conduct a war.
We need to also give him, along with that power, the resources to
conduct not only a war that could take a short period of time, but a
war that could be enduring.
Right now, our military forces badly need equipment, spare parts,
munitions and intelligence resources to win this war. So along with
this resolution, Mr. Speaker, let us resolve that, over the coming
months and years, we will give our troops and our commander in chief
what it takes to get the job done.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to yield 3 minutes to the
gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Skelton), the ranking member of the
Committee on Armed Services.
(Mr. SKELTON asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it is fitting on this national day of
mourning and remembrance that we take the first steps in healing our
Nation and bringing those responsible for Tuesday's heinous acts to
justice. We have condemned the unspeakable aggression visited upon our
cities, we have united the Nation behind the great symbol of our
American flag, and we have appropriated emergency funds to help States
and communities to respond and to rebuild.
Now we face the hard task of going forward, of responding soberly and
deliberately, but with great focus and conviction, and with the full
strength and righteous fury of the United States Armed Forces. In this,
we are in unchartered territory. While we have fought great aggression
before, our means of authorizing action today fit only imperfectly.
When Congress responded to Franklin Roosevelt's call in 1941 by
declaring war against the Japanese Empire, it could do so with full
knowledge. We knew who had attacked us. We knew that we would fight
against another sovereign nation in a traditional war that would
involve the full range of our military forces. We knew what victory
would mean, and we were committed to meeting that goal and we did.
The current circumstances leave us with great uncertainty. We do not
yet know who committed these unspeakable acts or where we may find
them, we do not know the scale and scope of what bringing the
perpetrators to justice may mean, and we do not know how long it may
take.
Yet there are some things we do know. We, the Congress, have a
constitutional duty to partner with the President in undertaking
military action. We fulfill that duty here with this resolution. While
our actions here may be imperfect, they are an essential first step to
show the unity of our Nation behind our President and our commitment to
stand with our Armed Forces.
We also know that we will not be alone. The world is behind us. Our
NATO allies, so long our partners and friends, are all ready to stand
with us. They have acted upon the principle that many throughout the
world have come to realize, that an attack on one peace-loving country
is an attack upon all.
We also know that our response to these attacks will require great
sacrifice. Our troops, who have long earned our respect and admiration,
will be called again into harm's way and will need our unwavering
support. Ordinary Americans, already sacrificing so much in the loss of
those they love and in their commitment to supporting our Nation, will
be called upon to sacrifice still more. This battle will be long and
difficult, and it will require concerted resolve from all Americans.
For us in Congress, we must continue to work with the President,
recognizing that the actions of the weeks and months ahead will require
both branches of government to execute their constitutional duties. We
must improve our intelligence capabilities and assess the ability of
our government to respond to unthinkable possibilities. After Tuesday,
we know we must think about them strategically and thoroughly.
Mr. Speaker, let us stand together and pass this resolution.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield such time as she may
consume to the gentlewoman from New Jersey (Mrs. Roukema).
(Mrs. ROUKEMA asked and was given permission to revise and extend her
remarks.)
Mrs. ROUKEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the
resolution, so that, in the words of Lincoln, ``this Nation, of the
people, by the people and for the people, shall not perish from the
Earth.''
Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 64--a resolution
authorizing the use of the armed forces of the United States against
those responsible for this week's attack on our American homeland.
Our community has been devastated. Families in each and every town,
village and borough in northern New Jersey are in pain. We pray for
them and promise that we will do all in our power to find the villains
who perpetrated this crime against them, against our nation, and
against the free people of the world.
We must be firm. Our investigation must be quick and retaliation must
be certain.
Yes, this is retaliation.
But these are not singularly the objectives of our use of force. The
defense of our democracy--and our loyal hardworking citizens. The
principle that we will stand tall for the world to see and defend the
rule of law--our law and international law.
And on the basis of these recognized standards supported by most
governments--including many European, Asian and Muslim nations--and
every international group--the United Nations, NATO, the European
Union--as well. They are standing tall and supporting our defense of
liberty and national sovereignty to ``use all necessary and appropriate
force against nations, person or entities, as clearly defined in this
Resolution.
I stand in strong support of action and am confident there will be
overwhelming support--if not a unanimous vote--for this resolution.
We must stand tall and firmly state--with the hammer of force if
necessary--to protect innocent Americans. In the words of Lincoln
``that this nation--of the people, by the people, for the people, shall
not perish from the earth.'' (Abraham Lincoln)
We must continue to work together to heal each other and reaffirm the
solidarity so many Americans have shown over the last few days. May God
comfort those families who have been devastated by this atrocity.
And may God bless the United States of America.
[[Page H5645]]
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Kolbe).
Mr. KOLBE. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday, September 11, the United States
sustained, but heroically withstood, a terrorist attack of
unprecedented magnitude. Make no mistake about it: this was not only an
attack committed against this Nation as the leader of the free world,
but was also an assault against all of humanity, against our very
civilization as we know it.
Today, the U.S. Congress will authorize the use of force to repel
this attack on the people of the United States. As we take this step,
we should be conscious of the magnitude of the undertaking. This is not
a resolution expressing our outrage. It is nothing less than a
declaration of war. Success will be measured by eradicating the
individuals and the networks of those responsible for this act of war.
Given the tactics that we know of terrorists, this task will be
arduous and difficult, but we can and we must be victorious. To all
those who cherish freedom and democracy around the world, let there be
no doubt: your way of life, your aspirations for the future, the
security of your family, have also been attacked. The devastation in
New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington is not limited to the United
States. It stretches to your countries, to your streets, indeed to your
homes.
You too must stand and be counted in the fight against the
perpetrators of this crime as well as threats from other terrorist
acts. After this authorization, Congress and the President will need to
re-visit the threat of terrorism. We will have to develop a new
comprehensive strategy to combat terrorism at home and around the
world. In that endeavor, we will prevail. Today's legislation marks the
beginning of that effort.
Mr. Speaker, in this effort, we will prevail, and today's legislation
marks the beginning of that effort.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Kucinich).
Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me
time.
Mr. Speaker, whatever form of action we choose must reflect our
democratic principles and distinguish us from the mentality of
terrorists and destructive violence. Our actions must pursue a path
towards reducing violence, not escalating violence. Launching weapons
of mass destruction or collateral attacks against innocent civilians
would be no different than the terror we already have had brought upon
us. An eye-for-an-eye mentality is unacceptable. We are a Nation of
civil and moral values, and we must show the world that.
These terrorist attacks were clearly a crime against humanity. What
does a democracy do to punish criminals? We put them on trial. If found
guilty, we imprison them. The U.S. military action should be centered
on arresting the responsible parties and the Government placing the
suspects on trial.
That is how we win this. This is how we should show the world that we
are a humane and democratic Nation. That is what gives us the moral
high ground. That is what we need to do to help prevent future attacks.
Future attacks will not be prevented because terrorists fear our
military. To kill them does not scare them. It is an honor for them to
be killed. But for our democracy, it is important to rise above their
violent attacks and punish them with unquestionable moral superiority.
That will vindicate our highest principles.
Violence is reciprocal in nature. Peace is also reciprocal. The
direction we take will speak volumes about our democracy. We must and
will defend our country, and we must and will pursue and arrest these
criminals. We must do so in a manner that upholds democratic
principles.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. Sam Johnson).
(Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas asked and was given permission to revise
and extend his remarks.)
Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, America is strong, America is
united, and America will prevail over evil. The terrorist attacks
against us have failed; and they have only made us more determined,
more focused, more resolute.
Mr. Speaker, the President will, at the appropriate time, use the
full force of the United States to stop those who are opposed to
freedom and the American way of life.
Do you remember our Declaration of Independence? ``We mutually pledge
to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.'' These
words should remind anyone who tries to destroy our freedoms that
Americans always stand together.
Mr. Speaker, I fought in a couple of wars myself; and this is a war,
and I am ready to do it. That is why we remain the greatest, most
powerful country on Earth. Let us go to war for freedom.
God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Kleczka).
Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, almost 60 years ago the United States
suffered massive casualties in a surprise attack on one of our military
bases. On Tuesday, September 11, Americans were forced to relive the
terror of another brutal and malicious attack on our citizens.
Then, just as now, our Nation rose up as one to respond to a horrific
incident with steadfast determination to defend ourselves and to find
and punish the aggressors. The resolution before us gives the President
authority to use all necessary and appropriate force against those
nations, organizations or persons he determines planned, authorized,
committed, or aided in these terrorist attacks. Make no mistake about
it: the cowardly terrorists responsible for bringing harm to our
American family will be punished.
A force resolution was presented to Congress in 1991 which did not
receive my support, for I felt the situation lacked the gravity
required before we put our men and women in uniform in harm's way. Our
borders were not at risk of an invasion; our citizens were not in
imminent danger.
The tragic events of this week have violated all these precepts. We
must respond swiftly and with force against those who maimed and killed
innocent Americans, men, women and children.
Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to vote to endorse this
resolution.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the learned
gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Bachus).
Mr. BACHUS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, a formal authorization for use of force now is just
that, a formality. We have now been in war and have been since Tuesday
morning. As Americans, we did not seek this war, but we will not shirk
from defending our country. Let us go forth with confidence; let us go
forth with resolve, to seek down these murderers, to destroy them, and
to destroy their ability to repeat Tuesday's dastardly attack.
Our response must encompass not only those who perpetrated the crime,
but those who supported it, and all those who have sheltered and
provided resources to these killers. In this, I am confident all
America is united.
May God be with us.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 3 minutes to the
gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer), the distinguished ranking member
of our Committee on House Administration.
Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the ranking member for yielding me
time.
Mr. Speaker, centuries from now, when future generations look back,
they will see that September 11, 2001, was a day like no other in our
history. A bright, late summer morning on our Nation's East Coast was
shattered by unspeakable acts of war against all Americans and all
freedom-loving people.
We fear that these cowardly attacks have claimed more than 5,000
innocent men, women and children, making this the deadliest day ever on
American soil.
At Pearl Harbor, 2,300 perished; at Antietam, 4,000 fell in a day;
and during our entire 8-year struggle for independence, 4,500 patriots
gave their lives for freedom.
After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Japanese admiral who planned
that treachery remarked, ``I fear all we have done is awaken a sleeping
giant and filled him with terrible resolve.''
Mr. Speaker, our national resolve expressed in the resolution before
us is equally determined, and those responsible for these depraved
attacks have every reason to fear it.
[[Page H5646]]
Under the authority granted by Article I of the Constitution,
Congress has declared war only 11 times. We do not make a formal
declaration of war today. However, in fulfillment of our constitutional
duty and as contemplated under the War Powers Resolution, Congress does
today authorize the President to use all necessary and appropriate
force against those nations, organizations or persons who planned,
authorized, committed or aided these horrific attacks.
{time} 1900
Importantly, Mr. Speaker, we also authorize the President to use all
necessary and appropriate force against those who have harbored such
organizations and persons.
A generation ago, one of this Nation's greatest friends, whose mother
was an American herself, rallied free people against the darkness and
despair descending on the European continent. ``You ask, what is our
aim? I can answer in one word. It is victory.'' So said Winston
Churchill.
Victory is our aim today; not over nations or persons, but over
terrorism. However long and hard the road may be, we must cut out and
destroy this cancer which plagues civilized society.
When future generations of Americans look back, let them see that we
answered this challenge with courage and with unity. Let them see that
we took decisive action that made the world safer for this generation
and for generations to come, and let them see that September 11, 2001,
a day like no other in our history, marked the turning point in the war
on terrorism.
In bracing us for war some 60 years ago, Roosevelt said, ``With
confidence in our armed force, with the unbounding determination of our
people, we will gain the inevitable triumph, so help us God.''
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Delaware (Mr. Castle).
Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I also rise in strong support for this
resolution authorizing the use of military force against those who
attacked our Nation on September 11, 2001. On this day of national
remembrance and mourning, we must act to ensure that those who have
lost their lives in these horrific acts of violence have not died in
vain.
Earlier today, we heard the words of our spiritual leaders reassuring
us and giving us solace at this difficult time. Now, as the Nation's
political leaders, we must act.
We do so with the devastation of these attacks fresh in our minds.
New York Mayor Giuliani reported that nearly 5,000 people have been
reported missing. At the Pentagon, over 100 are dead or still missing.
We must not forget those innocent people aboard the planes, nearly 200
killed. If these estimates hold true, they would amount to twice as
many casualties as those suffered in the Japanese attack on Pearl
Harbor.
Their deaths cannot go unanswered, or more Americans will die the
next time terrorists want to champion their unjust cause at our
expense. The United States must respond with our full might and force
to destroy these terrorists and all who give them aid and safe harbor.
Today, the House of Representatives will authorize the President of
the United States to use the Armed Forces against those nations and
organizations responsible for Tuesday's destruction. Mr. Speaker, it is
our responsibility, our duty, to empower our President to act and act
decisively.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield such time as he may
consume to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Etheridge).
(Mr. ETHERIDGE asked and was given permission to revise and extend
his remarks.)
Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the
resolution. On September 11 we lost more American lives than on any
single day in history. Terrorism must be stopped around the world.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution to approve
the use of American military force in response of the attacks this week
on our Nation and her people.
Earlier today, I joined with our civilian and military leadership at
the National Cathedral for the prayer service in mourning for the
victims of Tuesday's attacks. The Reverend Billy Graham was absolutely
correct to observe that the assault that was meant to tear us apart has
instead joined us together. Our Nation has come together to grieve for
the dead, the injured and the missing, and we all weep at the
incomprehensible suffering that has been inflicted on the American
family. This collective mourning is a necessary and healthy process to
help us recover as a people and face the difficult days ahead.
But as the Scripture teaches us, ``To every thing there is a season,
and a time to every purpose under heaven.'' The time to mourn will
pass. And the time to act will come.
I support this resolution because America must act. America must act
deliberately and with decisive force to strike down the terrorist
enemy. American must act to protect our country from this new danger
whose evil knows no bounds. America must act to eliminate the threat of
terrorist attack on our people wherever that threat may exist.
I support this resolution because this Congress must come together--
Democrats and Republicans alike--to stand side by side with our
Nation's Commander in Chief as he leads our military into the most
challenging campaign we have ever faced. We must come together on a
bipartisan basis to support our brave young men and women in uniform,
some of whom may not live to see our victory over this enemy.
I support this resolution, but this Congress and the American people
must understand that we are embarking on a very dangerous mission whose
duration is unknown and whose outcome is not foreordained. Our enemies
in this war hide in the shadows and retreat to the far reaches of the
Earth. Our enemies do not have the courage to face us in open combat so
our military leaders will need to adapt a new approach to win this war.
But I strongly support this resolution because America must stand up
once and for all and state to the world: no one with the means and the
will to threaten the American people will be tolerate--anywhere on the
face of the Earth.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2\1/2\ minutes to the
gentleman from California (Mr. Schiff), a distinguished member of the
Committee on International Relations.
Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, tonight we authorize the President to use
all necessary and appropriate military force against any nation,
organization or person responsible for the terrible attacks of
September 11, or anyone who harbors such individuals. Make no mistake;
it is a broad delegation of authority to make war on those who have
attacked us. We do not do so lightly or without consideration for the
weighty consequences of our act.
After the attacks of this week, many Americans recalled Pearl Harbor.
I thought of the Battle of Britain and Hitler's indiscriminate bombings
of London, Churchill's words still so powerfully resonant: ``He hopes
by killing so many numbers of civilians and women and children that he
will terrorize and cow the people of this mighty imperial city. Little
does he know the spirit of the British nation or the tough fiber of the
Londoners who have been bred to value freedom above their own lives.''
So true of America. Little do these petty tyrants and murderers know
the spirit of the American people or the tough fiber of the New
Yorkers, our defense workers, or the civilians who spared further
casualties by taking down the hijackers and their own plane over
Pennsylvania.
The face of this tyrant is new and yet not so new. Like others before
him, he abhors a free society and democratic institutions. He is
willing to kill innocent men, women and children to further his
perverse aims. There are no means too inhuman, no tactic too appalling
to further his end. He thinks we are weak because we do not tell our
citizens what to think, how to act, whom to worship; because we
tolerate dissent. He does not realize this is our strength, and he has
awoken the sleeping giant.
``What he has done,'' as Churchill has said, ``is to kindle a fire in
hearts here and all over the world which will glow long after all
traces of the conflagrations he has caused have been removed.''
What these petty tyrants do not understand and have never understood
is that for all of our rough-and-tumble public discourse, we are one
people, under one President, and capable of greater single-mindedness
of purpose than any repressive regime.
We will not relinquish our freedoms of speech, assembly, and
religion, nor sacrifice our precious right of privacy or way of life.
``The price of freedom is high, and Americans have always paid
[[Page H5647]]
it,'' President Kennedy said. We pay it still.
This is the battle of America. The enemy may be new, but the fight
has always been the same. Our government, our democracy, is premised on
basic human freedoms, on the right of the governed to control their own
national destiny. The Civil War tested whether any Nation so conceived
could long endure. We have endured. We will go on, with growing
confidence that we can fight terrorism wherever we find it and
strengthened by the conviction that the generation of Americans now
being tested will not falter or flag.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Knollenberg).
Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise in very strong support of this
joint resolution authorizing the use of military force against those
responsible for the September 11, 2001 terrorist acts against our
country.
We are about to make what, for most of us, will be the most important
vote in our time as Members of Congress. Authorizing the use of force
is a monumental event, and its significance should not be minimized.
This resolution is not about vengeance; it is about victory, it is
about winning a war against an enemy that is actively seeking to kill
American citizens and destroy our way of life.
We are not naive. The use of force has many risks, but we risk more
by doing nothing. This resolution acknowledges that the world is a
different place today, but we have the ability and the will to win a
war against terrorism. The security of American lives requires us to
succeed.
I urge adoption of this resolution.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to the
gentlewoman from Nevada (Ms. Berkley), a distinguished member of the
Committee on International Relations.
Ms. BERKLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to offer my strongest support for
this resolution authorizing the President to use all necessary and
appropriate force against those responsible for the terrorist attack of
September 11, 2001.
Today I stand in solidarity with my colleagues, with the
administration, and my countrymen in defending America, in promising to
seek justice and revenge on those who planned, authorized, committed or
aided the vicious agents of evil who carried out these terrorist
attacks. It is a war we are ready to wage; it is a war we must win.
America stands ready to fight against terrorism wherever it rears its
ugly head. Ours is not a war against a people or a religion, but it is
a war against those that would enslave the minds of men and sow the
seeds of hate and fear. I am confident that those who cherish freedom
will heed our call to join us in our fight against international
terrorism, and I am equally confident that we will make these cowardly
terrorists suffer the wrath of a determined Nation.
No one can perpetrate such devastation on the United States of
America and escape unscathed. To these blights on humanity, let me say
this: This Nation will hunt you down and we will find you, and when we
do, we will hit you once and, if we have to, again, and a third time.
We make this oath to you today with a saddened heart, but with firm
resolve. We will be victorious. Nothing less than our freedom depends
on it.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to the
distinguished gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier), the chairman of
the Committee on Rules.
(Mr. DREIER asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, it now appears that Tuesday's attacks will
have taken over 5,000 of our friends, family, and neighbors. Five
thousand innocents murdered because they were Americans. If this does
not call for an American military action of some sort, then I do not
know what does. We are talking about nearly double the number of people
who were killed in Pearl Harbor and, clearly, the largest military
attack on American civilians in our Nation's history.
A well-funded international terrorist organization has declared war
on us, and we can do no less than fight this enemy as we would any
Nation that had committed the same atrocities. Whether it is tomorrow,
next week, or next month, we know that the only message that these
butchers will understand is a timely decisive show of American might.
Our decision to take action will not be made in haste. We will pinpoint
those responsible and make our judgment swift and effective.
This is not about revenge, Mr. Speaker. It is a means of ensuring
that those who would wreak acts of terror upon the United States know
the price of their barbarity. America is the world's symbol of freedom,
of prosperity. The idea that is America has been savagely attacked, and
we have an obligation to the world to defend the values we embody.
Nations across the world have offered their condolences, their
prayers, and pledges of logistical support should we choose to take
military action. They know that the next attack may not be New York or
Washington, but Brussels or London. We have the responsibility and the
power to bring these terrorists to justice.
Mr. Speaker, the challenge has been issued and now it is up to us to
decide whether we will rise to the occasion. Supporting the President
is our duty to the victims and to the world.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Capps), my distinguished colleague.
Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution.
Tuesday was the darkest day in American history. Our grief for the
victims knows no bounds. Our compassion for their families fills our
hearts. Our pride in the rescuers, medical personnel, and volunteers is
endless.
In the aftermath of this terrible assault, our Nation now faces
tremendous challenges. We have no greater challenge than to protect our
citizens and our institutions against further acts of terrorism. Never
before has our Nation faced such an extraordinary threat to our
security and to our way of life.
By passing this resolution, Congress stands united with the President
in what may be a long and costly fight against these forces of darkness
and evil. But make no mistake. We will prevail.
{time} 1915
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Pence).
(Mr. PENCE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. PENCE. Mr. Speaker, at 10 a.m. on September 11, I stood on the
east lawn of the Capitol, smoke billowing from the Pentagon behind the
Capitol dome, F-16s coursing through the air. The Earth beneath my feet
shook with a secondary explosion at the Pentagon.
I was filled, Mr. Speaker, with a deep and resolute anger that this
would not stand; that America would respond. That is altogether
fitting. The butchers who carried out these attacks see themselves as
warriors, and it would be wrong of us to deal with them otherwise.
What they are about to learn is that America's fighting men are the
most powerful warriors in the history of the world. Tonight I will
solemnly and with deep humility vote to give our President the power to
use all necessary and appropriate force to vanquish the enemies of our
peace. May God have mercy on their souls, because the United States of
America will not.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to our
distinguished colleague, the gentlewoman from Hawaii (Mrs. Mink).
Mrs. MINK of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman very much for
yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, I served in the Congress during the heated debates about
Presidential powers during the war in Vietnam. As a consequence of the
differing opinions that were so heatedly fought on this floor, the War
Powers Act was enacted. It clarified specifically what the Presidential
powers were, and to what extent the responsibility of the Congress was
to review those actions taken by the President.
We are here today to authorize President Bush to take such powers and
such actions as may be necessary in order to find a way to punish, to
retaliate against those who caused all this damage on the soil of
America, and we
[[Page H5648]]
join the President in our eagerness to give him that authority.
But I want to make sure that I understand this resolution. I have
read it a dozen times over, because I want to make sure that the War
Powers Act that we enacted right after the conflagration in Vietnam is
not in any way jeopardized.
I think we have to call attention to those sections which say
``Nothing in this resolution supersedes the war powers resolution.'' On
that basis, I support the passage of this resolution tonight.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Pitts), a member of the Committee.
Mr. PITTS. Mr. Speaker, we must pass this resolution and give the
President all the power he needs to stop the slaughter of innocent
Americans from happening again. The evil men who orchestrated this
attack have shown that they will stop at nothing. Their goal is to kill
as many Americans as they can. If they ever get their hands on
chemical, biological, or even nuclear weapons, they will use them. Let
no one doubt it. We are at war, a war to save innocent Americans from
the specter of grisly death by the weapons of mass destruction.
But it is not a war against Muslims or against Arabs. Many of our
Arab and Muslim Americans came to the United States to get away from
the very same type of extremists as those who attacked our country. In
the past few days, my office has received an outpouring of deeply
sympathetic support and condolences from people in many Islamic
countries around the world.
As our great Nation pulls together, let us be careful not to turn to
hate or stereotyping. Justice must and will be carried out, but it will
be against those who deserve it, the savage radical terrorists, not
against our fellow Arab and Muslim citizens and friends here and around
the world.
In that spirit, I urge my colleagues to pass this resolution
unanimously.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my
distinguished colleague, the gentlewoman from Florida (Mrs. Meek).
(Mrs. MEEK of Florida asked and was given permission to revise and
extend her remarks.)
Mrs. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding
time to me.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the joint resolution. By
passing this resolution we say, never again. We stand shoulder to
shoulder with President Bush, our Commander in Chief, firmly united in
our resolve to identify and punish all nations who harbor hatred to our
country.
Mr. Speaker, that is our highest duty. This can be our finest hour.
This afternoon this House took a major step toward winning this war
when it unanimously passed the $40 billion emergency supplemental. Now
we take the next necessary step, authorizing the President to use all
necessary force to prevent any further acts.
Mr. Speaker, as I noted yesterday, Americans have always known that
freedom is not free. It often comes with a tremendous cost, and often
imposes a tremendous responsibility. Throughout our history, Pearl
Harbor, Gettysburg, from the founding of our constitutional democracy,
our citizens have always been willing to pay that price. We are ready
to pay that price, Mr. Speaker. We will never forget the sacrifices of
all the victims of terror. We will honor their sacrifices by waging and
winning the war against terrorism.
Sixty years ago, after he learned of the attack on Pearl Harbor,
Winston Churchill quoted a remark made to him: ``The United States is
like a gigantic boiler. Once the fire is lighted under it, there is no
limit to the power we can generate. It will be generated.''
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to yield 2 minutes to
the distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. DeLay), the majority whip.
Mr. DeLAY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to
me.
Mr. Speaker, Members should support this resolution because it
affirms the President's authority to firmly direct America as we
identify, isolate, and eliminate the networks of terrorism. This
international network of terror is a cancer growing on the heart of
every free Nation.
We must hand President Bush the tools that he needs to defeat our
enemies. We must fortify our Armed Forces with the certain knowledge
that a united America marches behind them, and we must convince our
enemies that America will ultimately vindicate freedom, no matter how
depraved, twisted, or evil our enemy's ideology may be.
We do not walk an easy road. Our Nation faces a long and demanding
conflict with forces of determined evil, but the fiber of our American
spirit and the strength of our faith will sustain us as we do what
needs to be done to protect freedom and secure victory.
Every American should anticipate and prepare for a prolonged and
sustained campaign. They should understand that this war will be
measured in years, not months. They should prepare themselves for
additional assaults at home. They should expect casualties as we take
the battle to our enemies.
But they should take pride and draw confidence from the great
reservoir of American patriotism and resolve. We are made of sterner
things than our enemies know. We will show the world that we retain the
qualities that made us the leader of the free world. We will do it by
holding firm to our mission. Deeds, not words, will save America and
the free world.
When the President draws that sword of American justice, he needs to
do it with all of us standing right beside him. Mr. Speaker, this
resolution rallies our Nation behind the President, and I ask the
Members to support it.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Texas Mr. Bentsen.
(Mr. BENTSEN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. BENTSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
legislation extending to the President the authority to take the steps
necessary to respond against those persons, organizations or nations
responsible for the attacks against America last Tuesday.
I believe this authority fully complies with Congress' constitutional
and statutory authority in authorizing the use of force in the defense
of the Nation. It is necessary, I believe, to send a message loud and
clear that the President and the Congress of the United States are
committed to employing the full resources of the Nation to both respond
and ensure that our adversaries who undertook and/or aided in the
attacks of September 11, 2001, will be held responsible and prevented
from future atrocities against America.
Passage of this bill tonight will signal to these ruthless forces
that the United States is fully committed and has done so without
compromising our Constitution, laws or ideals. While September 11,
2001, has caused great pain and agony for the Nation, it has not and
will not defeat our resolve or our commitment to freedom and democracy.
The fight may be long, it may be tough and costly, but we will know
from tonight forward that it will be right.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Kennedy).
Mr. KENNEDY of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of
this bill. President Kennedy once said in his inaugural address that:
``In the long history of the world, only a few generations of Americans
have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum
danger. I do not shirk from that responsibility. I welcome it.''
We are once again called upon to defend freedom in an hour of maximum
danger. My son, Charles, in a recent college application essay, noted
that Americans have always risen to the challenge, from settling this
rugged land and gaining independence until today.
Freedom again is challenged. We owe it to my son, Charles, and all
our children to rise to this challenge so that they can live in a land
where freedom is safe.
We have a responsibility and we will not shirk from that
responsibility. We welcome it.
It is my hope that, again quoting JFK, ``The energy, the faith, the
devotion that we bring to this challenge can light our country and all
who serve it and the glow from that fire can truly light the world.''
[[Page H5649]]
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my
distinguished colleague, the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Brown).
(Ms. BROWN of Florida asked and was given permission to revise and
extend her remarks.)
Ms. BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this
resolution. I would like to do so with caution. This is a resolution
that comes with a tremendous amount of responsibility. I support the
President, but we are treading on new grounds here today. As my
favorite scripture says, ``To whom God has given much, much is
expected.'' Let me repeat that. ``To whom God has given much, much is
expected.''
On September 11, for the first time in 175 years, the capital of the
world's greatest military power was attacked. This was a well-thought-
out and organized attack, and it demands a well-organized and powerful
response.
Members of this group that designed this attack cannot go unpunished.
Nor can the Nations that trained, supported or gave them shelter. The
United States must deliver a swift and immediate response to this
horrible act against the people of this great Nation.
God bless America
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Pryce), a member of our elected leadership.
Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Nebraska
for yielding me the time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong and unwavering support for this
resolution, for the President and for our Nation. The events of
September 11 have left a scar on the United States of America, a scar
that may never completely heal. And part of us will always remain
beneath that rubble, but as we steady ourselves, from deep within, we
look toward the pursuit of security and justice.
By enacting this resolution, we speak with one voice. We are united
behind our common cause and against our common foe. We should not take
lightly the great effort that we set in motion here today. Indeed, each
of us must give pause in our hearts as we start the men and women of
our Armed Forces down this path.
But this pause, this reflection should not be mistaken for
hesitation. Our resolve is undaunted. The attackers of September 11
meant to unleash fear and chaos. Instead, they unleashed our fury.
Mr. Speaker, we do not blink in the face of this challenge. Our
Nation rises up, and when we clear away the dust and the smoke, the
world can be sure that the United States will shine on, the brightest
beacon of liberty and freedom.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute and 10
seconds to my distinguished colleague, the gentlewoman from California
(Ms. Woolsey).
(Ms. WOOLSEY asked and was given permission to revise and extend her
remarks.)
Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution.
Like my constituents in Marin and Sonoma counties, I feel a
combination of outrage and sorrow over Tuesday's tragic events. I share
my constituent's wide-ranging conflicting emotions about what should
come next. No doubt the events of September 11 have changed us forever;
but as I stated Tuesday, our Nation's response to these attacks will
also leave an indelible mark on the American people.
Yes, we are united in our disgust for the violence that was
perpetrated in New York City and Washington, D.C., against our
democracy and against our freedoms. We know that we must bring those
responsible for the attacks to justice, but my constituents also ask,
do we know what means are appropriate to accomplish that? They are
pleading with me and with you that we temper our absolute resolve with
wisdom.
{time} 1930
Our conscience and our memory reminds us that a hasty response to
Tuesday's attacks, just for the sake of retribution, could mean killing
even more innocent people. That is why my constituents beg me and I beg
this body, please, do not respond to evil with evil.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from
California (Mrs. Bono).
Mrs. BONO. I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in very strong support of this resolution. As
sons and daughters of what has been called the ``Greatest Generation,''
many of us grew up in awe of those giants of the 20th century, common
citizens who performed uncommon deeds of valor and gallantry that
secured our Nation and the world's freedom. We thought bravery of this
kind was found only in our history books and in the memories of our
veterans. This week, our generation confronts our own challenge, and it
is a challenge of enormous consequence. Now our generation will be
given the chance to rise to the occasion and make the ``Greatest
Generation'' proud.
We confront an enemy that is a threat to the civilized people of our
times. Once our Nation rose to stave off tyranny. Now we must employ
all our resources to stave off terror and fanaticism. We will answer
this duty, and we will not go quietly and softly into the good night.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the
gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt), the distinguished ranking
member of our Committee on the Budget.
(Mr. SPRATT asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, in a strict sense, this resolution is not
necessary, because the Constitution makes the President commander in
chief; and as such, he has the power to strike back when our country is
struck, as it was struck on September 11, and the War Powers Act
confirms that power.
Even though the President can retaliate without this resolution, he
is far stronger with it. This is our way of saying that we are together
in this cause. We approve the mission. We are one in our resolve. By
this resolution, we say that unmistakably to the whole world, friends
and foe alike.
On occasions in the past, we have been aware of invoking the War
Powers Act and becoming implicated in military actions we were not sure
about. But the world should note that in this instance we set such
concerns aside and give the President broadly the power to use all
necessary and appropriate force.
These words have large scope. We do not know for sure who the enemy
is, where he may be found, or who may be harboring him. Congress is
giving the President the authority to act before we have answers to
these basic questions because we cannot be paralyzed. We need to answer
this treacherous attack upon our people on our soil, and that is why we
grant the President this broad grant of authority.
We trust the President to use this authority with care and, above
all, to consult continually with Congress so that the partnership that
exists now will endure for the long fight that lies ahead. We do not
expect to huddle before every play, but we do expect a seat at the
table. We do expect to be advised and heard as we prosecute what is
sure to be a long, hard mission.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Buyer), a member of the
Committee on Armed Services.
Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this joint resolution
between the Senate and the House. As I have sat here and have witnessed
my colleagues, I have seen great resolve uttered in this Chamber and
the swaggering display of courage.
I can share with my colleagues, as a veteran of the Gulf War, that
war may be glorious in verse or prose, but in reality it is not. We are
about to send America's finest, and that means men and women will die.
It will be a noble cause, but we must remember the resolve of this
moment, because in war it is chaotic. Not everything is going to go
right. We cannot be 400 and 500 generals between the House and the
Senate.
The solidarity and resolve we have at this moment we have to remember
at times when it gets tough, when we have to stand with a constituent
in a lonely place at a burial service. We must make sure that we take
care of the loved ones afterwards. And taking care of them means we
resource them
[[Page H5650]]
and we are patient and we are in this for the long haul.
We cannot have the bravado of today and then run at the first sound
of the guns. We have to stay the course and see it through. Please,
when it gets hard, remember this day.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to my
friend and colleague, the gentleman from California (Mr. Baca).
(Mr. BACA asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution to
authorize the President to take necessary actions against terrorist
nations, organizations or persons. And in authorizing the President
this power, we must ensure that we protect innocent people and nations
and that we, as a Nation, do not use this authority to go back in time
against innocent Americans.
It is time to end this barbaric cowardly act on our country and
Nation. What happened on September 11 was clearly an act of war that
has landed on our shores. It has touched the lives of our country and
Nation and many individuals, individuals such as Cora Holland, mother
of three and grandmother of two from my district; Rhonda Sue Rasmusen,
who lost her life at the Pentagon; Navy Yeoman Second Class Melissa
Rose Barnes, who remains unaccounted for at the Pentagon, and many
innocent civilians at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, as well
as those who were on the flights who were used to commit this evil
horrible act.
We as a Nation will pull together and build our courage and strength
for we are united and our faith will guide the President and Congress
in dealing with this horrible act. When America is attacked, we respond
with one voice, with the full force of our Nation.
I urge support of this resolution. God bless America.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Largent).
(Mr. LARGENT asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. LARGENT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. In
the immediate future our task is clear: we must wipe out terrorism and
all those who support it. Under the U.S. Constitution, this body's
overriding responsibility is to protect the security of American
citizens. We must go to whatever lengths are necessary to hunt down and
destroy those responsible for these attacks.
However, achieving this immediate goal is only half the battle. We
must begin with the long view in mind. We must also think now about how
to shape the world so that another terrorist network will not rise up
to replace the one we will destroy. We must create the conditions for
hope and opportunity in the countries that are now fertile grounds for
the development of future terrorists.
We must develop a vision for American involvement in the 21st
century, ``for without a vision, the people will perish.'' As President
Reagan said, ``Great nations have responsibilities to lead, and we
should always be cautious of those who would lower our profile, because
they might just wind up lowering our flag.''
If we are to thrive through this century, we must lead. For to whom
much is given, much is required.
This week's attacks were an act of war against the United States.
When we determine who is responsible our reaction must be strong,
decisive, and sustained enough to stamp out this threat against our
nation. This resolution gives the President the authority he needs to
conduct any operation that would punish the group responsible for these
attacks and any government who harbors these terrorists.
Many people have discussed the symbolism of these attacks. The only
enduring meaning of these attacks--planes crashing into buildings--is
barbarism, cruelty and hate.
In the immediate future our task is clear. We must wipe out terrorism
and all those who support it. Under the U.S. Constitution this body's
overriding responsibility is to protect the security of American
citizens. We must go to whatever length is necessary to hunt down and
destroy those responsible for these attacks.
However, achieving this immediate goal is only half the battle. We
must begin with the long view in mind. We must also think now about how
to shape the world so that another terrorist network will not rise up
to replace the one we will destroy. We must create the conditions for
hope and opportunity in the countries that are now fertile ground for
the development of future terrorists.
We must develop a vision for American involvement in the 21st
century, for ``without a vision the people perish.'' Without question
or wealth and power make us the leader of the free world, but we must
also lead the free world.
As President Reagan said, ``Great nations have responsibilities to
lead, and we should always be cautious of those who would lower our
profile, because they might just wind up lowering our flag.''
If we are to thrive through this century we must lead, ``for to whom
much is given much is required.''
What this means for the coming battle is that we must target
terrorists and the state-structures that support them, not the citizens
of nations who, in many cases, are already suffering under repressive
regimes.
Our greatest asset in this immediate battle against terrorism and the
long-term fight to shape a world that is safe for democracy is the
strength of our character. The rescue workers in New York and
Washington have shown the world what we are made of. Their heroism has
reminded me of the words on the Iwo Jima Memorial, ``Uncommon valor was
a common virtue.''
The depth of evil expressed in Tuesday attacks was extraordinary, but
the love Americans have for freedom and for one another is greater
still, and we must spread it. Terrorists may attack our structures but
they will never dent our soul.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my
distinguished colleague, the gentleman from California (Mr. Becerra).
Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, 3 days ago, on September 11, our Nation
suffered a grave terrorist attack that challenged not just America but
democracy itself. Today, the American family gathered in churches,
mosques, and synagogues to remember and pray for the victims of this
unforgivable act.
As generations before us, we will rise as one Nation behind one flag
to defeat a common enemy. It is with this unity of purpose that we
consider this joint resolution authorizing the use of all necessary and
appropriate force against those responsible for this barbarous attack.
My colleagues, today is only the beginning. This power we are about to
entrust in the President is essential to ensure that our Nation is able
to eradicate a vile weed all the way down to its roots.
We too, as the elected representatives of the men and women of
America, are responsible for the successful prosecution of this
endeavor. In the weeks and months ahead, we must act and work as one
with the President as he consults regularly with Congress about the
status and progress of our great Nation's efforts against those who
planned, perpetrated or were complicit in the infamy and inhumanity of
September 11, 2001.
Mr. Speaker, God speed to all of us as we prepare to undertake this
dramatic struggle to restore the peace and security we as Americans
cherish.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Goodlatte).
Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
resolution authorizing the use of force. The recent attacks on the
World Trade Center and the Pentagon leave our Nation horrified and
angry. Our hearts grieve for the victims and for families who have lost
loved ones to these acts of terrorism. But through this tragedy, we
will see America at her finest.
The wave of patriotism rising across the Nation exposes a fierce
determination that we will not back down in the face of cowardly
attacks. These attacks are solemn reminders that there are people who
begrudge America for her stands for democracy and freedom.
I fully support President Bush in his pledge to hunt down those
responsible for these despicable actions and hold them accountable, and
we must hold no distinction for these despicable terrorists and the
countries that protect them.
Mr. Speaker, may God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Kind).
(Mr. KIND asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, I too rise in support of this resolution. But
of all
[[Page H5651]]
the important votes I have had to cast, this one scares me the most
because we do not ultimately know the true magnitude of this challenge
or its true cost.
This is the beginning of a prolonged and lengthy fight against
terrorism. I am confident that we will win most of these battles, but
we should anticipate losing some as well, as we did last Tuesday. This
resolution is not about retaliation or revenge, this is a matter of
self-defense.
Mr. Speaker, last Tuesday, our ship of state was hit. And while we
will not sink, we were bloodied on our own soil. Now it is time for all
hands to be on deck, not just here in the United States but amongst all
the civilized nations in the world as we band together to defend
ourselves against international terrorism.
Our President has requested this authority, and he will get it. And
may God bless those men and women in uniform who will be asked to carry
out this task.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Gilchrest).
Mr. GILCHREST. Mr. Speaker, our hearts go out to the hurt America now
feels. For centuries, the international civilized community has been
plagued by three fundamental enemies: ignorance, arrogance and dogma.
America's solution for the long-term defeat of these enemies is to
replace ignorance with knowledge, arrogance with humility, and dogma
with tolerance.
{time} 1945
Sometimes, as now, in the short term a terrible swift sword is also
necessary. America now recalls the words of Franklin Roosevelt 60 years
ago when he said, ``This generation has a rendezvous with destiny.''
We defeated evil then. We will defeat evil now. Our generation has
accepted a rendezvous with this destiny; and that is to rid the world
of these plagues.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Oregon (Mr. DeFazio).
Mr. DeFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, the senseless human tragedy caused by the
craven terrorist acts of September 11, 2001 weigh heavily on our minds
and will do so for days, months, and years to come.
Many have said our Nation will never be the same. I agree. Our Nation
is stronger, more united, more proud than possibly any time in our
history. The outpouring of grief and support both here and around the
world has been comforting. The terrorists may have collapsed our
buildings, but in response, we are building a stronger America.
America is based on a Constitution and our laws. Under Section
2(c)(3) of the War Powers Act, the President already has the ability to
use the military to respond to an attack upon our country and our Armed
Forces. Nothing in the resolution supersedes any requirement of the War
Powers Act. The President has authority to respond against those who
perpetrated the acts on September 11.
Under the resolution of force pending today, Congress will reserve
the right to review the President's plans and actions. But make no
mistake, this Congress will stand behind our young men and women in
uniform who may be put in harm's way and we will stand with President
Bush as Commander in Chief. I hope and pray the President will use the
awesome force of the United States with great deliberation and wisdom.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Florida (Mr. Putnam).
Mr. PUTNAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give a speech I never
imagined I would give; that of support for an authorization of force, a
21st century declaration of war.
As a member of a generation largely shielded from the horrors of war,
I accept this responsibility with no small amount of respect and
humility.
Today we undoubtedly will approve the mobilization of our Nation's
sons and daughters to combat, to injury, pain, sacrifice and death.
There is no glory in our vote this evening, only duty.
We have a solemn duty to protect our shores, our countrymen, and our
liberties. We step away from the rhetoric this dark September night to
commit ourselves to a national sacrifice with this vote to a sustained
commitment of lives, liberties, and provisions necessary to preserve
those things we here subscribe.
Many of the men and women in the service of our Nation are in the
springtime of their lives. But to many in my generation, Pearl Harbor
was an exam question, Korea a backdrop for a TV rerun, and Vietnam a
blurry scene cobbled together by Hollywood and an oldies radio station.
To many Americans, the Gulf War seemed like a sustained video game writ
large in ticker tape parades, precision bombs, and talk of future
bloodless wars.
Mr. Speaker, the future is here and this war is bloody indeed. Our
Nation is ready. Our forces are prepared. The public is supportive and
Congress stands together as one. Godspeed to the President and God
bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Ortiz).
(Mr. ORTIZ asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, I stand in strong support of this resolution.
There is no question that we are strongly united. I have been in this
House for almost 20 years, and I have not seen so much unity, not only
among the House Members, but throughout this great country.
We have to realize that 2 days ago, the dreams and hopes of many
young men and women and people of this country were destroyed by the
acts of these terrorists.
I had a chance to go visit the Pentagon yesterday. I could see the
civilian agencies locally, nationally, our military working and singing
from the same page. It is distressing to see that many families lost
their fathers, mothers, uncles and many families.
The best thing I can say to those terrorists is do not mess with the
U.S.A.
God bless America.
I rise in support of the resolution, the first step this Congress
will take to exact retribution for the act of war committed upon this
nation, striking at the heart of our financial and military centers and
taking dead aim at our political center.
Let Congress' message ring very loud to those responsible for this
act of war: we recognize it as such--and the people's representatives
respond in kind.
We have been hit hard, and we have lost family, friends, children,
mothers, fathers, and many dreams died.
We lost our innocence to a large degree; and the number of people we
lost exceeds the casualties of Pearl Harbor.
This resolution respects the Constitutional power to declare war, the
most awesome responsibility given to Congress.
Since we have yet to discover definitive proof of all those
responsible--including nations which gave Osama bin Laden safe harbor--
we must give the administration the authority to pursue these
international criminals until we have the information we need to
declare war.
I have seen the morale of the emergency workers at the Pentagon and
seen the looks of grim determination on the faces of those who work
there every day.
They are now helping clean up the mess and recover the bodies of
their comrades in arms.
Their morale is very high
The morale of the nation is very high.
This is a hard decision for Congress to make--usually.
Today the decision is not so difficult.
These terrorists brought their destruction to bear inside our
borders.
As the Ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee,
let me offer my advice to my colleagues.
We must not telegraph our punches.
Here's what that means: we don't tell the enemy how we will conduct
our campaign, nor what kind of force to expect.
It will be swift, overwhelming and deadly, but let that be all we
tell bin Laden and his bunch.
Let us give our military the money they need and send them to do what
they do best: fight and win wars.
Our armed services have some of the most talented people in the
nation, capable of doing whatever mission we need done.
Most importantly, let them utilize the element of surprise, which, as
we all know is a brutally effective part of the arsenal.
Finally, a word to the people who perpetrated this act of war.
I want to explain to you why your efforts to damage our nation--or
undermine our democracy--are futile.
We are a nation of laws, not people.
[[Page H5652]]
It is our ideas and our commitment to liberties and democracy that
bind us together under our Constitution.
Washington is not where the power is; that power lies with the people
of this nation.
Nothing illustrates that better than on Tuesday when the House Call
Center redirected all incoming House calls to our district offices,
scattered across the country when we evacuated.
Our meeting place here in this building is where we come to do the
people's business, but we are temporary employees of the people who
elect us.
If a member of our government is lost, another is elected.
Our power is in the people who populate this nation, and the ideas
that bind us together.
Your power is in hate and wealth.
We will win.
The last thing you will see is the mighty power of the United States
military.
May God--and Allah--have mercy on your soul, and on all who harbor
you.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. English.)
(Mr. ENGLISH asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. ENGLISH. Mr. Speaker, Psalm 71 says, ``Bring to a shameful end
those who attack me. Cover with contempt and scorn those who seek my
ruin.''
On Tuesday, September 11, war was declared on the United States
without provocation. Tonight we rise to accept that challenge which we
did not seek, but to which we respond with resolution. We are prepared
to defend our soil, our institutions and our peaceful communities.
We did not seek this conflict, but we stand fully prepared to finish
it and restore justice and peace. To do this, we are prepared to place
in the hands of our leadership the full power and resources of the U.S.
military and the authority to challenge the evil that has descended
this week upon our Nation, wherever it may hide.
We as a Nation have not bent in the face of adversity, but we have
bristled at the challenge to our freedoms. We cannot allow this
challenge to go unanswered.
I urge my colleagues to fully support, without qualification, the
President and the men and women in uniform as the men and women of our
Armed Forces prepare to defend our liberty, knowing that we realize we
are asking them to sacrifice much and are confident that they are up to
this daunting task.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Pastor).
(Mr. PASTOR asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. PASTOR. Mr. Speaker, Americans are now standing at the crossroads
of history. We must rise to the challenge.
Will we scurry back to where we came, or will we hold our heads high
and proud and march forward to battle those who threaten our way of
life? With this resolution, we have answered the question.
We will answer senseless slaughter with the necessary aggression to
bring about its end. We will answer wanton killing with the belief that
we are right in our belief and our love for freedom. We will answer
hatred with the determination to preserve humanity. It will be a long
and difficult struggle. But with the passage of this resolution, let no
one doubt our firmness in defending ourselves.
We are a united Congress. We are a united government. We are a united
people. We will succeed. I support this resolution and ask my
colleagues to support it.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Illinois (Mr. Shimkus) with whom I share pride in having been an
officer in the United States Army in the past.
(Mr. SHIMKUS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, as a former active duty Army officer and
current reservist, the day I have most dreaded is here. With this
resolution my military colleagues, my West Point classmates, my
friends, will go into battle and some will pay the ultimate sacrifice
with their lives.
Our Founding Fathers understood this as they pledged their lives,
their fortune, and their sacred honor.
Mr. Speaker, at the Pentagon yesterday, a young lieutenant from the
Old Guard asked me, ``Are we going to go get them, sir?''
I was mistaken when I said, ``Yes, we are.'' I should have said,
``Yes, you will.''
What a sobering responsibility to send our young men and women into
battle. To our Nation I say stand firm, do not waiver, see it through.
To my colleagues I say, stand firm, do not waiver, see it through. May
God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from North
Carolina (Mr. Price).
(Mr. PRICE of North Carolina asked and was given permission to revise
and extend his remarks.)
Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I stand in support of this
resolution. Tuesday's terrorist attacks are unparalleled in our
history, costing thousands of lives in one terrible day, more than the
carnage at Antietam, more than Pearl Harbor. This was a carefully
planned and skillfully executed act of war; and we must answer it with
unity and resolve, apprehending and punishing those responsible, and
any who harbored them or gave them aid.
In responding as swiftly and surely as our military might permits, we
must do our utmost to protect innocent civilians, a principle that
stands in stark contrast to the practice of our brutal adversaries. We
must carry out military action within the parameters of the
Constitution and the War Powers Act, as this resolution provides. We
must punish those heinous acts of Tuesday, acts as close to absolute
evil as any of us will ever witness, and we must prevent anything like
this from ever happening again--rooting out terrorism even as we renew
our Nation's commitment to alleviating the world's suffering and
injustice and serving as a beacon of hope to all humankind.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Alabama (Mr. Riley), a distinguished member of the Committee on Armed
Services.
Mr. RILEY. Mr. Speaker, there are defining moments in each of our
lives. There are also defining moments in the life of a nation.
September 11 was one of these defining moments. That was the moment our
Nation remembered the sacrifice of our fathers and understood our
responsibility to our children. At that moment, our Nation was
galvanized by what it means to be an American. And now this resolution
will show those who supported this act of hate the full meaning of
American resolve.
Mr. Speaker, I offer my full support of this resolution and to the
destruction of evil wherever it resides in this world.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman
from California (Ms. Waters).
(Ms. WATERS asked and was given permission to revise and extend her
remarks.)
Ms. WATERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise with a great deal of uncertainty and
apprehension.
To the President of the United States, I will be asked by my
constituents did we give you the power to declare war? Many in this
Congress will argue that we are not giving you the power to declare
war. Others will argue that we are giving you the power to do anything
from assassinate an individual, to declare war on an entire country.
Mr. President, I am going to vote yes on this resolution because I
believe the terrorist acts of September 11, 2001 were in fact a
declaration of war against the United States of America. However, I
vote yes with great reservations.
To be honest, Mr. President, I do not know what this means. The
language of this resolution can be interpreted in different ways.
Mr. President, you have the awesome responsibility of leading this
Nation and making the best possible decisions for the people of this
country. Mr. President, do not misuse this authority. Mr. President, do
not abuse this awesome power. Mr. President, I plead with you to use
this authority with great care and great wisdom.
Mr. President, with this power, the decisions you will make will
determine the future of this Nation and perhaps the world. May God
bless you with restraint and compassion to make wise
[[Page H5653]]
decisions, and may God have mercy on your soul if you do not understand
the awesome power that you have been afforded by the Members of
Congress who are placing our trust in you on behalf of the American
people.
announcement by the speaker
The SPEAKER. The Chair advises Members that all remarks should be
addressed to the Chair.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Virginia (Mr. Wolf).
(Mr. WOLF asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution
authorizing the use of force against those responsible for the acts. I
wanted to be here to be part of history, to make sure I was there when
this took place.
I have no eloquent words to say tonight like so many others than to
say this: I want us to pray for the President; to pray for our leaders
on both sides of the aisle; to pray for those in the Cabinet who are
going to be part of this decisionmaking; to pray for the military
because few, if any, of us will actually go into combat; to pray for
the men and women who go into combat; to pray for wisdom, protection,
and guidance; and lastly, to pray for our country.
{time} 2000
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to yield 1 minute to my good
friend, the distinguished gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Tanner).
(Mr. TANNER asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. TANNER. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday's events were an attack on the
United States, but they were more than that. They were an attack on
humanity and civilization itself. This resolution tonight represents a
policy change in our country, a big policy change, a monumental policy
change, because we are declaring war not against any nation, not
against any individual, not against any religion. We are declaring war
against animalistic, inhuman behavior called terrorism wherever it
exists on Earth. That is a monumental step for this country.
This country needs to take that step in my opinion, though, because
we are the leader in freedom and democracy and human rights in the
world. And so on behalf of humanity and on behalf of civilization, on
behalf of our children and grandchildren's future, we take this burden
on tonight. We did not seek it. But, ladies and gentlemen, we have seen
the face of evil and we must crush it.
We are filled with grief, yet buoyed by pride. Like all Americans, I
want to right this wrong and to avenge these cold, calculated killings.
While this might seem a forgone conclusion to the overwhelming majority
of those home and abroad watching and awaiting our decision, this is
the single most difficult obligation for a Member of this House to
fulfill. In approving this measure, one is reaffirming one's support
for our nation, our President, our military leadership, and expressing
our collective outrage and defiance on behalf of the thousands of
American families that have been torn apart. In this respect, this is
an easy decision. But, as Members of Congress, we do not have the
luxury of reacting solely on emotion.
Ultimately, the weight of this awesome responsibility and the
consequences of this decision falls on each of us. Thus, we as members
of this institution, are required to divorce ourselves from the
emotions, consider the interests of our nation, and to give serious
consideration to the very real prospects, or one might say, the
inevitable consequences of our choice. One cannot avoid the probability
that the action we consider here tonight will likely bring additional
loss of American life. As such, the exercise of this Constitutional
obligation is never easy, regardless of the relative merits or personal
convictions with respect to the course prescribed.
Moreover, tonight each Member has the additional burden of knowing
that in approving this measure we are not only responding to this
action, but we will be embracing a monumental change in U.S. policy.
With this resolution, we declare that we will no longer draw any
distinctions, limiting our response to those individuals who materially
participate in an act of hatred and cowardice against the United States
and its citizens. We are clearly at a point of demarcation in U.S.
foreign policy. From this point forward, we say to the world, choose
sides. Either you join us in the singular purpose of rooting out and
destroying these merchants of fear and networks of hate, or we will
regard you as a co-conspirator and, as such, you will be subject to the
same fate as the perpetrators.
Again, this seemingly simple adjustment is no insignificant matter.
This is a major policy shift which presents numerous challenges. This
resolution will change the tone and tenor forever. This was an attack
on civility and as such it will require a monumental effort. It will
require us to have the fortitude and strength of resolve to see it
through to its conclusion, without regard for the unavoidable
unpleasantries. We must stay the course. To deviate or to shy away
would surely risk exposing our nation, our citizens and life as we know
it to far greater dangers.
America is the embodiment of freedom, the beacon of hope and in a
very real sense, the guardians of justice--a justice shaped and honed
by our values and morals. From this point forward, we will surely have
our morality and values tested. We must strive to seek that delicate
balance between accomplishing our objectives and ridding the world of
these vessels of hate, while showing utmost care not to allow it to
lead to a decay of our appreciation of humanity. We must not allow our
anger to burn so deep that we become like those we condemn. In our zeal
to right the wrongs we must show care not to dim the lamp of freedom or
diminish the sacrifice of those who have given their lives to promote,
protect and preserve this great democracy.
This was not just an attack on New York City, the Pentagon or even
America, but rather an attack on civilization, itself. It marks an
escalation which cannot be ignored. We must join the other nations in
an all out fight against these enemies of society. I applaud President
Bush and Secretary Powell's efforts to reach out and build
international support. We must spare no efforts to seek the full
support and cooperation of allies, as well as friend and foe in the
Arab world. This effort will certainly require an unprecedented level
of diplomatic cohesion and demonstration of political sensitivity.
Failure to gain the support and cooperation of the international
community will surely limit our effectiveness and expose this nation to
grave dangers. We can ill afford to become isolated in this pursuit.
As a nation, America has slumbered in the naive belief inherent in
our decisive military might, superior technology and the safe labor
provided by the great expanse of open ocean. Heretofore, we have been
afforded the luxury of remaining unsoiled by the dirty business of
hatred so common in a majority of the world today. On Tuesday, we were
rudely awakened, our naive sense of security shattered by the ugly
realities of terror.
We did not choose this course of our own volition, but having seen
evil's face we must be resolved to join the fight with everything we
can muster.
I stand in support of this resolution. May we proceed wisely.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Barr).
Mr. BARR of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Nebraska
for yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, I support this resolution. I support this legislation.
However, we ought to be here this evening debating a declaration of
war. Somebody once said that if it walks like a duck, if it quacks like
a duck, if it looks like a duck, then it is a duck.
This is war. The President has said it is war. The Secretary of State
has said it is war. The Secretary of Defense has said it is war. Former
government officials have said it is war. The American people know it
is war. There is one way and one way only, Mr. Speaker, to respond to
acts of war, and that is to declare war. Give the President the tools,
the absolute flexibility he needs under international law and The Hague
Convention to ferret these people out wherever they are, however he
finds them, and get it done as quickly as possible. We need a
declaration of war.
I urge my colleagues to keep that in mind and to support a
declaration of war above and beyond this power that we will give the
President this evening.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentlewoman from Ohio (Mrs. Jones).
Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I am angry, as I am sure most
Americans are. And words cannot express our anger. But I have an 18-
year-old son named Mervyn. And I always tell Mervyn, ``Mervyn, anger is
the ill wind that blows out the light of reason.''
I stand firmly in support of the United States, the United States
Constitution, our President and this Congress. I just trust that we
will be as deliberate as they were, as precise as they were, but we
must not let our anger blow out our light of reason.
[[Page H5654]]
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from South Dakota (Mr. Thune).
Mr. THUNE. I thank the gentleman for yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, this is serious business. Tonight, we authorize the use
of force. But we really have no choice, because a bunch of murderous
thugs have extinguished the life from thousands of innocent Americans.
This weekend in my home State of South Dakota in the State capital of
Pierre, veterans of World War II are going to gather and celebrate the
achievements of what has been called our greatest generation. My father
will be among them. He and the patriots of his day knew that American
justice demanded that they rid the world of fascism and genocide. Their
generation fought and defeated the evil of their day, and together our
generation must fight and defeat the evil of ours.
I believe I speak for every South Dakotan in saying that these
terrorists have messed with the wrong country. They have picked on the
wrong kid. They have murdered our innocent brothers and sisters. And we
will make it right. There will be justice. I know that every South
Dakotan stands ready to support our President, to defend and protect
American citizens and American freedoms. The world will know that
America is strong and there will be a reckoning.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Watt).
Mr. WATT of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as I read the War Powers
Act, the President actually has the authority to do what we are asking
him and giving him the authority to do in this resolution because of a
national emergency created by an attack on the United States or its
forces. Despite that fact, this has got to be the most difficult vote I
will have cast in the 9 years I have been in this body. I am absolutely
terrified that we are about to declare, or authorize the President to
declare war. But we have got to do it. That is what our constituents
sent us here to do, to make the weighty decisions, to cast the
difficult votes.
I just hope the President will exercise his authority with judgment
and wisdom. And I hope that God will bless America and these decisions.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Utah (Mr. Hansen), a member of the
Committee on Armed Services and chairman of the Committee on Resources.
(Mr. HANSEN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. HANSEN. Mr. Speaker, it was our friend, the gentleman from Texas,
Mr. Sam Johnson, who served about 6 years in Hanoi as a prisoner of
war. He states that on his cell wall he had a little statement that
said, ``Freedom has a taste to it to those who fought and almost died
that the protected will never understand.''
I guess the events of Tuesday brought us a lot closer to
understanding what could occur. We see where freedom is challenged by
another nation if it may be a nation, which it is not but a group of
people who have some funny attitudes.
Today, I had the opportunity of going over to the Pentagon and
standing there and looking at what occurred. Apparently, there were two
people standing there as that plane went over their heads. They
actually felt they had to duck as it went over their heads, standing
right outside of the Pentagon. They said at that point that they
throttled up, as we used to say in the Navy, we two-blocked the
throttle, and went in. Imagine that tonnage of airplane hitting that
Pentagon at that speed.
A lot of people died; a very painful situation. But this thing can be
made right. And it should be, and these people will be ferreted out.
And I am confident they will be destroyed. That is what should occur.
Freedom has a taste to it and we better learn to understand it.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Guam (Mr. Underwood).
Mr. UNDERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Guam, I rise in support of
the resolution to authorize the use of military force by the President
against persons, nations, and organizations which were connected with
the despicable acts on American soil on Tuesday, September 11.
A formal authorization to pursue the criminals and their cohorts who
committed these inhumane and incomprehensible acts is our collective
statement about our national will. It is a will that reflects a
national crusade that will inevitably prevail. I have no doubt about
that. But we should be mindful that our national will should not be
displayed with anger; it should be pursued in the name of justice. We
do not take this step in the name of vengeance. We take it in the full
confidence that we are a special people, called upon to safeguard
freedom and democracy here and abroad.
It is a mark of our strength that we do not use military strength
lightly. It is a mark of our democracy that we take this step now and
in the future together with the President. It is a mark of our people
that we marshal the resources, the courage and the wisdom to prevail,
not to assuage our anger but to make the world safe for everyone.
Support the resolution. Support the President. Support our men and
women who are working around the clock to defend us all.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. Smith).
Mr. SMITH of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my good friend from
Nebraska for yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, this joint resolution is well intended, but it does not
go far enough. I regret the President did not get all the support he
needed or wanted. This resolution should have authorized the President
to attack, apprehend, and punish terrorists whenever it is in the best
interests of America to do so. Instead, the resolution limits the
President to using force only against those responsible for the
terrorist attacks last Tuesday. This is a significant restraint on the
President's ability to root out terrorism wherever it may be found.
Terrorism is not confined to a single organization or a single group
or a specific sect. All terrorists, even those not directly connected
to this week's attacks, are a deadly threat and must be neutralized. We
cannot win the war against international terrorism unless we fight on
all fronts. This resolution, while helpful in some ways, ties the
President's hands and allows only the pursuit of one individual and his
followers and supporters. I am disappointed that this limited
resolution does not respond adequately to the need to protect the lives
of freedom-loving people around the world.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to my
good friend, the distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. Doggett).
Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, this time of great peril has brought forth
the best in our people, from those who rescue and heal and protect at
ground zero, to those who across America raise flags, collect donations
and give blood. But times of peril can also cause our well-justified
anger and desire for immediate action to overwhelm democratic
safeguards erected over the last 2 centuries. The tension that we face
tonight is to provide the President with enough authority to eradicate
wrongdoing without wronging the carefully crafted systems of checks and
balances so essential to our democracy. Neither should this body
lightly yield the power of the purse by granting unlimited access to
the public treasury to the executive.
As we vote for this important resolution with the lives of so many at
stake in this important endeavor against terrorism, we cannot let the
executive branch become the exclusive branch. Our approval must
represent not the end but the beginning of congressional involvement.
Today, we pledge to redouble our efforts to assure the security and the
well-being of people in America and in many other parts of the world as
we challenge terrorism. But we do so, entering this difficult course of
national involvement, with an eagerness to see that our most precious
democratic institutions are also preserved.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith),
[[Page H5655]]
the distinguished vice chairman of the Committee on International
Relations.
Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend for
yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, the lethal threat to Americans will not go away by
wishing it away. The faceless cowards who murdered thousands of
innocent men, women, and children this week and the hate-filled
extremists, who today are scheming future acts of terrorism, must be
rooted out.
Mr. Speaker, even before Tuesday's atrocities, deaths from worldwide
acts of terror were on the rise. But nothing could have prepared
Americans, and the world, for the cruel and barbaric slaughter of so
many innocent people. In 1999, 233 people were murdered by terrorists.
In 2000, the number jumped to 405. In 2000, roughly half of all the
terrorist incidents in the world were directed against Americans and
U.S. assets. Each day, 10 to 12 threats are aimed at U.S. posts
overseas. However, most of those are on foreign soil, so we were lulled
into a false sense of security.
Mr. Speaker, people should know that whatever intelligence gathering
lapses may have occurred, Congress did step up to the plate time and
again through successive administrations. We did it after Beirut. We
did it through the succeeding years. We did it after the bombing of our
embassies in Africa.
Today, it is all too clear that our initiatives have fallen short.
And now, Mr. Speaker, the task of mitigating and ultimately ending the
terrorist threat requires the strongest medicine of all. It is time to
take the gloves off. This resolution urges the President to use all
necessary and appropriate force against those who were in any way
responsible for or who aided the terrorists and to prevent further acts
of terrorism against the United States.
The resolution is not a blank check. We do this with our eyes open
and in fervent prayer, especially the prayer that President Bush and
his national security team will be lavished with wisdom from God above
to use only that force which is truly necessary and only that force
which is truly appropriate.
{time} 2015
Finally, Mr. Speaker, we need to take heed from the ageless wisdom in
Psalm 37, where David writes:
``For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will
inherit the land. . . .The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash
their teeth at them; but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows
their day is coming. The wicked draw the sword and bend the bow to
bring down the poor and needy, to slay those who are upright. But their
swords will pierce their own hearts, and the bows will be broken . . .
for the power of the wicked will be broken.
``The days of the blameless are known to the Lord . . . In times of
disaster they will not wither . . . but the wicked will perish. I have
seen a wicked and ruthless man flourishing like a green tree in its
native soil, but he soon passed away and was no more; though I looked
for him, he could not be found.
``The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their
stronghold in time of trouble. The Lord helps them and delivers them;
he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take
refuge in him.''
This is not just our fight. It is the Lord's fight as well.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Roemer).
(Mr. ROEMER asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. ROEMER. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend from California for
yielding me time.
This morning as we sang the ``Battle Hymn of the Republic,'' one line
has indelibly burned into my mind as I contemplate this vote: ``As he
died to make men holy, let us die to make them free.''
We have had unprecedented death and grief in our country:
firefighters going into the World Trade Center, never coming out,
trying to fight for their fellow citizens; soldiers and sailors, dying
at their desks of duty; heroes bringing down a plane in Pennsylvania so
that we in this building might be free and live. Unprecedented death
and sorrow.
Mr. Speaker, it is never easy to cast a vote for war. We did not want
this, we did not instigate this, we did not need this. We have no
choice.
Paraphrasing Winston Churchill: let us brace ourselves for our
duties, and with justice, with firmness, with patience and fairness.
Some day they may say this was their finest hour.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Hayes), a member of
the Committee on Armed Services.
(Mr. HAYES asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. HAYES. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. On Tuesday, our
Nation suffered the most horrific act of terrorism the world has ever
seen. A hostile act of this magnitude should be viewed as an act of war
against our Nation.
Just as our country and the world changed in the wake of Pearl Harbor
60 years ago, our future was set on a new course with Tuesday's
senseless attack on our citizens. This horrifying act has united us in
a way that has not been seen in decades. It has inspired the world to
act against terrorism and strike back.
It is the duty of all of us to honor the victims of this tragedy by
using this international spirit to do everything possible to stop the
scourge of terrorism. Our President has shown leadership, prudence,
wisdom, and courage in his response to the crisis. This resolution
empowers our President and our men and women in uniform to win this war
against terrorism and ensure freedom for our country and the world.
As President Bush said, we will respond appropriately, at the proper
time and the place of our choosing.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the
distinguished gentlewoman from Georgia (Ms. McKinney).
Ms. McKINNEY. Mr. Speaker, the horrendous tragedies of this week
warrant a strong and judicious response. However, I am concerned that
the language of this resolution could result in dangerous foreign
policy.
The perpetrators of this crime must be dealt with. However, we must
ensure that when we strike back, we deliver a massive blow against
those truly responsible for this terrible crime.
We as a Nation stand for the rule of law. Perpetrators of crimes, no
matter their size or scope, are afforded a trial through a judicial
process. That means no targeted assassinations and no death squads. In
the aftermath of this horrendous act, let us not forget that real
security and real peace come through justice.
I, too, feel extreme pain and outrage at the attack on America, but
our Nation must respond with a commitment to justice, or else we become
all that we abhor.
The United States confronted this very same decision at the close of
World War II, that is, the struggle for justice in the face of tyranny.
There were those who called for widespread executions of Nazis,
Japanese leadership and their civilians. On the other side were those
who urged reason and a return to the rule of law. Supreme Court Justice
Robert Jackson, who led the prosecution at Nuremberg, said it best:
``That four great nations flushed with victory and stung with the
injury, stay the hand of vengeance and voluntary submit their captive
enemies to the judgment of the law, is one of the most significant
tributes that power has ever paid to reason.''
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Florida (Mr. Foley).
Mr. FOLEY. Mr. Speaker, I am sad it took Tuesday's events to bring
out the patriotism in our country and the need for military security.
My father's generation, who served in World War II, has long
expressed to us the need to be ever vigilant, to protect our society
from the evils of tyranny. We learned all too well on Tuesday that that
is indeed our mission here in this Congress, and we execute today with
great deliberation.
I was proud of my President and our President, George Bush, today in
New York; I was proud of him in the National Cathedral; and I am proud
of our country. The terrorists may have
[[Page H5656]]
taken a bite out of the Big Apple on Tuesday, but they are the ones
that are rotten to the core.
While we seek not retribution, we seek justice, and I ask my
colleagues once again, the third time today, to urge our communities
not to take retribution on those who may be of similar faith and
similar nationalities. Let us reserve our vengeance for those who
caused the crime, and not by guilt by association.
I love this country. I am proud of our Congress, and I am proud of
our President.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my friend,
the gentleman from American Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega).
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, like our President, we as Members of
this great institution all took a solemn oath to defend and support the
Constitution of the United States against all enemies, both here and
abroad. As copartners in this endeavor, our adoption of this resolution
will join us with the Senate in sending an unequivocal message that the
United States Congress firmly supports our President in taking all
necessary and appropriate action, including the use of military force,
to pursue and punish the persons and organizations who treacherously
murdered thousands of innocent Americans this past Tuesday.
Mr. Speaker I have seen my share of blood spilled in Vietnam, and it
is always a most difficult decision for me to support this
authorization to send our men and women in military uniform into harm's
way. Given the terrible heinous attacks on thousands of innocent
Americans this past Tuesday, I have no reservations that the President
must be given this authorization to wage war against international
terrorism.
Mr. Speaker, it is absolutely critical that the President is
successful in this endeavor, for I fear that the next chapter of
terrorism will be even more horrific and will likely involve weapons of
mass destruction, such as nuclear weapons and biological and chemical
agents, which long have been available in the international black
market.
For the protection of our Nation and our way of life, I urge my
colleagues to support the President by adoption of this resolution.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Kingston), a member of the
Committee on Appropriations.
Mr. KINGSTON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me
time.
Yesterday I had the grim task of going to the Pentagon and looking at
the rubble and seeing the grave, the unexpected grave, of almost 200 of
our citizens buried beneath all the bricks and mortar and concrete. In
this collection of dust, one of the workers who had been there for some
time asked me, he said, ``Tell me, we have been isolated here, we have
been on premises, we don't have access to TV and radio; what are the
American people saying, what are they thinking, what are you folks,
members of Congress, hearing from back home?''
I said to him, ``The people back home are resolved. They are behind
the President. They are united as an American people to exact a revenge
and retaliate, not for an act that we chose, but for one that we must
respond to. Otherwise, all Americans, in the airways, on the highways
or in the office spaces, are at danger. We must complete the task in
front of us.''
This legislation gives us that opportunity. It is essential.
When I said that to this worker, he was somewhat relieved. He joined
hands with me and said, ``Praise the Lord. We must do this.''
So, Mr. Speaker, I think this legislation is appropriate, and I hope
that my colleagues will support it overwhelmingly.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the
distinguished gentleman from the State of Washington (Mr. McDermott).
(Mr. McDERMOTT asked and was given permission to revise and extend
his remarks.)
Mr. McDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, there is an old Arab adage, ``Vengeance
is best served cold.'' The procedure we are dealing with here is red
hot.
Our history is replete with chaos created by our government going off
half-cocked. I was involved in the Vietnam War. I saw the casualties. I
was on the floor here when we went to war against Saddam Hussein. And
the feeling here today, as I listen to it, is that most people think
that Osama bin Laden is involved in this. Now, if we kill him, will the
threat from the other operatives be over? Sadly, I am afraid not.
We want to have an appropriate response, a cold, carefully planned
and calculated response. In the art of warfare, there is something you
must learn from your enemy. That particular enemy in this case did not
undertake this mission on the spur of the moment. Their plan evolved
over months and months and months.
Let me make an important point here: I strongly believe that America
should respond and severely punish those responsible for these heinous
acts. But we must move carefully. Bin Laden, if he is the one, used his
brains, not his strength. We, too, should use our brains, not just our
strength and power. Your brains must be your strength.
Think about it for a minute. Watch who kills the most prey, the bull
or the lion. Because the lion is quiet and watching, does not mean he
is asleep.
I will support this, but I will also reserve the right as Gaylord
Nelson and Ernest Gruening and Wayne Morse did, the right to vote
against funding if the President is not careful and does not plan
carefully.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Schrock), a member of the
Committee on Armed Services.
Mr. SCHROCK. Mr. Speaker, as the representative of our Nation's
largest naval installation and home of the Nation's highest
concentration of active duty and retired military, I stand today in
support of this resolution. The decision to use force against any and
all terrorists will require that many families in the district I
represent will sacrifice time away from their loved ones. In some
cases, even the lives of their loved ones may be lost in pursuit of our
goal to rid the world of terrorists, their supporters and those who
harbor them.
This is very humbling to me; but terrorists declared war against our
Nation, and, as they have for more than 2 centuries, the people of
Hampton Roads, Virginia, stand ready to defend our country, to seek out
terrorists and ensure they pay the ultimate penalty for their acts of
evil.
We are a peaceful, freedom-loving Nation; but we have the right to
self-defense. We will defend and protect our country and its allies by
eradicating our planet of this evil.
God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the
distinguished gentleman from Florida (Mr. Boyd).
(Mr. BOYD asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. BOYD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. I come
here today in a sobering mood.
{time} 2030
This is a somber and solemn moment for our Nation. We are about to
take an action which will put our Nation's finest in harm's way, but we
know what we have to do to prevent additional loss of life and to
protect our freedoms.
Mr. Speaker, when I was carrying a rifle in the jungles of Vietnam, I
prayed every day that never again would American young people have to
go to a foreign soil to fight in combat. But we know what we must do to
prevent additional loss of life and to protect our freedoms.
Mr. Speaker, we are angry, but we must not react in anger. We must be
calm. We must be patient. Our reaction must be measured, it must be
calculated and responsible, and it will be effective.
In our 225-year history, Mr. Speaker, thousands of Americans have
given their lives to defend freedom. Each generation has learned that
freedom is not free. There is something about America that these thugs
do not understand, but they will understand when we complete our
mission. May God grant wisdom to the President of the United States and
may he grant his protection and blessing to the young, great Americans
that have to carry out this mission.
[[Page H5657]]
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Idaho (Mr. Otter).
Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this
time.
Mr. Speaker, during the dawning days of this great Republic, one of
our founding architects uttered these words:
That these were the days that try men's souls. The summer soldier and
the sunshine patriot will in this crisis shrink in the service of their
country, but he that stands it now deserves the love and the thanks of
every man and every woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered,
yet in that we have this consolation; and that consolation is that the
more difficult the battle, the more glorious the triumph. Those things
which we obtain too easily we esteem too lightly. So it would seem
strange, indeed, Mr. Speaker, if so celestial an article as freedom
were not highly prized.
Mr. Speaker, I offer that tonight as it be as applicable on this
resolution as it was on the resolution that Thomas Paine wrote it for.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. Green).
Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.J.
Res. 64. Today, as Members of Congress, we use words as our weapons.
Tomorrow these words must be followed through. The hard work begins.
As Americans we pride ourselves in our diversity. We come in all
shapes and sizes and colors. We come with many religious beliefs:
Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim. But in our differences we are
family. We are different and proud; but attack us, kill us, harm us, we
are Americans first and we respond as family.
The gloves are now coming off with respect to all of the terrorists
and their organizations and the governments who choose to harbor them.
With the passage of this resolution, the President of the United States
will have the authority to apply all the military force he deems
necessary to terminate terrorist threats against this country. America
has stood strong in the face of adversity and has never bowed down to
enemies and will not start now.
Justice will come in many forms for the people involved in this
attack. We have yet to see even the tip of the iceberg when it comes to
the retribution we will exact from the leaders of this bombing.
Mr. Speaker, I have never been prouder to be an American. God bless
America.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Gekas).
(Mr. GEKAS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. GEKAS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this
time.
Mr. Speaker, everyone knows that the President of the United States
is granted vast powers under the Constitution and under the consent of
his fellow Americans: the power to guide domestic affairs, to deal with
domestic crises, to present legislation; all the things with which we
are familiar; and he also has the vast power that is granted to him to
declare and to enforce and to execute foreign policy. It is there that
a slight demarcation occurs.
When foreign policy is the question, Americans almost unanimously
swoop behind the President and support him and urge him on for the
betterment of our own Nation's policies. And he is, of course, the
Commander in Chief.
I rise in support of this resolution because he is the chief of state
for domestic policy, because he is the architect of foreign policy, and
because he is the Commander in Chief. And as the Commander in Chief, he
should and does have the power to put our American force to the best
use possible across the world.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes), my good friend.
Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, today we are authorizing the use of the U.S. military
against those responsible for the recent attacks launched against us.
We are simply at war. We did not seek this war; but make no mistake, we
will respond. We will finish the conflict on our terms, but only after
we determine that our enemies have been defeated.
The coming days, weeks and months will continue to test us. We will
hear heart-breaking stories, see tragic images. We will continue to say
good-bye to American troops as they head off to defend us against
terror and those who hate America, those who hate everything that
America stands for: freedom of speech, freedom of religion and freedom
of democracy.
As President John F. Kennedy once said, ``Let every Nation know,
whether it wishes us ill or well, that we will pay any price, bear any
burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order
to assure the survival and the success of liberty.'' We will persevere.
We will be victorious.
God bless our great country.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Platts).
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this
time.
I rise in support of this resolution authorizing our Commander in
Chief to bring the full weight and fury of our armed services against
the evil parties responsible for the heinous attacks against our
citizens.
Just off the rotunda here in the Capitol Building stands a statue, a
fellow Pennsylvanian by the name of John Muhlenberg. In January 1776,
this 29-year-old Lutheran minister gave a sermon about the fight for
independence in which he quoted Ecclesiastes: ``There is an appointed
time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven;
a time for war and a time for peace.'' Pastor Muhlenberg then concluded
his sermon by casting off his clerical robes to reveal the uniform of a
Continental Army officer.
Mr. Speaker, as in the founding days of our great Nation, the time
for war is upon us. God bless our Nation, and God watch over our
citizens who will be going into harm's way.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Florida (Mr. Wexler), a member of the
Committee on International Relations.
Mr. WEXLER. Mr. Speaker, when I put my 8-year-old son to sleep on
Tuesday night, he told me his whole body felt like crying. Today, the
whole body of America is crying.
As we internalize the depth of the pain and horror inflicted on our
people, we cherish life, we cherish freedom, we cherish America. And
that is why we must authorize military force to rid the world of the
insidious scourge of terrorism, no matter what the cost, no matter how
long it takes. I beg God to sustain us and permit us to be the worthy
defenders of peace and freedom.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from New Hampshire (Mr. Sununu), a member of
the Committee on Appropriations.
Mr. SUNUNU. Mr. Speaker, when America's freedom is threatened,
Americans respond. And in the hours that have followed the horrific
attacks of Tuesday morning, our Nation has done just that, and done it
in ways that bring forth deep emotions of patriotism and gratitude and
humility. Humanitarian assistance has poured forth from across the
country, thousands have enlisted as volunteers, and funds have been
made available to help recover and to help rebuild.
Tonight we take the next step in responding to this great challenge.
The resolution before us will place a unified Congress behind the
Commander in Chief and send a clear message to America's enemies.
We must authorize and we must employ all necessary force to protect
our Nation against this terrorist threat and to destroy the capability
of those who would wage future attacks. We know the challenge is great,
but the cause of preserving our freedom demands no less.
In doing so, we ensure that although our Nation never sought this
conflict, we will end it in a way and in an hour of our choosing.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the
gentleman from New York (Mr. Crowley). We all feel anguish, but none as
powerfully as he, who lost his first cousin, age 42, in this outrage.
[[Page H5658]]
Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California, my
friend, for yielding me this time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to speak again about the heinous
crime committed against the American people, people all over the land,
living here in the United States, and against our great Nation.
On Tuesday, September 11, the lives of all Americans changed forever.
As a Nation, we have grieved and we have joined our hearts together in
prayer. We have watched as our lives have been put on hold so that we
may honor the dead and the missing. We keep hope alive for the brave
men and women who continue to work around the clock to search for life
and survivors.
I spoke yesterday about my dear cousin, Battalion Chief John Moran,
who so bravely dedicated his life to the saving of the lives of others
at the site of this attack. My cousin, like so many others who are
heroes, has not been found.
Mr. Speaker, we will all be rebuilding emotionally and physically for
some time to come. Our great Nation stands changed for ever. Yet
somehow it is also stronger, more united, and more defiantly proud than
ever. These truly are, as our great President Abraham Lincoln stated
during another difficult period in American history, the times that try
men's souls.
Our physical symbols have been destroyed and thousands of lives are
feared lost, but our values and ideals of freedom and democracy stand
stronger than ever. These values shared by all Americans of all
religions and backgrounds is what causes such hatred and jealousy in
the hearts and the minds of our enemies.
I recently saw a photograph of the New York City skyline which had in
its midst the image of a new skyscraper where the towers of the World
Trade Center once stood, and the caption on top said, ``we will
rebuild.''
Mr. Speaker, we will rebuild. While we honor those who have lost
their lives and try to absorb the terrible losses of the last several
days and try in our own individual and collective ways to move forward,
we cannot forget the perpetrators of this reprehensible crime; those
who planned, authorized, aided and abetted these attacks. They must not
and they will not go unpunished. But, Mr. Speaker, make no mistake; the
response of the United States, the House of Representatives, has been
carefully considered.
{time} 2045
We have all taken a deep breath and searched our hearts and souls for
an appropriate and just response.
I myself have just come back from visiting ground zero with our
President in New York. I stood with him surrounded by firefighters,
police officers, and rescue workers who have worked since Tuesday
tirelessly searching for bodies, praying to find anyone who survived
this horrific attack.
Mr. Speaker, I was proud to stand there with my President, with my
colleagues, and with these brave men and women. And for the first time
this week, I felt a glimmer of hope and a whole lot of pride, pride for
our Nation that takes care of itself, for a nation that has men and
women like the ones I saw and met today and this week who have put
themselves in harm's way to save the lives of others; proud that
despite the destruction of physical symbols, that it is the undying
principles that endure.
Tonight we consider another measure, this one to enable the
President, our Commander in Chief, to use whatever means required to
bring this crime to justice. For the memory of those who served and the
memory of those innocent lives taken so very prematurely, it is the
very least we can do. Americans by nature are not a vengeful people,
but we need to respond to these attacks so as to ensure that they never
happen again.
As the Commander in Chief, the President must provide for the common
defense and promote the general welfare of our people, this resolution
permits our Commander in Chief to do just that.
I support this resolution, not lightly but without hesitation. This
resolution and the authority it contains allows for the protection of
our American way of life for generations to come.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
The gentleman can be assured that all of us in this House share in
his concern, his grief, and his pride in the courage and relentless
efforts of New Yorkers and others who have come to their aid.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Arizona (Mr. Shadegg).
(Mr. SHADEGG asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. SHADEGG. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people that I have the
privilege of representing in this House, I rise in strong support of
this use of force resolution. Unfortunately, I am concerned that it may
not go far enough. It does not go as far as the President requested or
may need.
On Tuesday, America sustained a cowardly attack. It was a despicable
act of war. Mr. Speaker, the American people are a peaceful people. We
are slow to anger. But we have been viciously attacked, and the attack
was unlike any ever known in this world and in its history.
It will require a very different response. We must focus our anger
and carefully plan, calibrate, and execute our response. It must be
worldwide and comprehensive in scope, as well as massive in magnitude.
We must target and destroy every terrorist and every terrorist group
that aided or supported the attackers or sympathizers with their cause.
We must destroy their will to fight, not out of revenge, but as a
matter of self-defense. Because terrorists do not defend territory or
populations, they cannot be confronted or defeated using traditional
means. We cannot expect easy or quick solutions. We must be prepared
for a protracted effort to eradicate these cowardly terrorists.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my
neighbor and good friend, our distinguished colleague, the gentlewoman
from California (Ms. Eshoo).
Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend, my colleague, and my
congressional neighbor, the ranking member, the gentleman from
California (Mr. Lantos), for yielding time to me.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in full support of this resolution. I do it with
a heavy heart because of what has been imposed on our Nation. We did
not seek this, but we must act.
I do not believe that we act, and I know that I do not, in taking
this vote, out of vengeance, because the American people are good and
they are decent. They are loving, and they have once again exhibited
this face and this character this week in one of the most tragic and
challenging moments in our Nation's history.
I believe that this resolution is consistent with the War Powers Act,
and that it reiterates the President's authority under the Constitution
to take action to deter and prevent acts of international terrorism
against the United States of America.
I know that this will be long and difficult. I pledge my allegiance
to the magnificent people of our country, and I say to the constituents
of my magnificent congressional district that we will move ahead united
and do what we must in the name of those that gave their lives this
week.
I ask God to bless our Nation and to guide our President.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Arizona (Mr. Hayworth).
Mr. HAYWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I crossed the aisle tonight to offer these
remarks, not for priority of party but for the needs of our Nation.
The men and women in uniform we are about to send into battle will
not wear insignia of party identification, they will be there as
Americans. So Mr. Speaker, tonight in this place, at this hour, I stand
in strong support of this resolution as the people of Arizona and the
people of America go forth united in what will prove to be a difficult
and perhaps even a protracted struggle, but a fight we cannot afford to
postpone.
Support the resolution. Support our Nation and our way of life. We
are Americans first. Vote for the resolution.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to yield as much time as he
might consume to our distinguished democratic leader, the gentleman
from Missouri (Mr. Gephardt), who has led us through this crisis with
grace and dignity and wisdom.
(Mr. GEPHARDT asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
[[Page H5659]]
Mr. GEPHARDT. Mr. Speaker, first, I thank you and your colleagues for
working so hard with all of us to present a completely united front to
our foes and to the world in this time of grave emergency in our
country.
I rise to address my colleagues, though today we all know we are more
than that. Today, we are all American brothers and sisters, because the
family of America has been attacked, and we have gathered together to
begin the process of healing and then defending our American family,
our beloved Nation.
What was the purpose of Tuesday's attack? Terrorism's simple goal is
that it is embedded in the word ``terrorism'' itself. It is to create
terror. That was the real goal of Tuesday's attack. Well, we can report
to the world that we are fighting and winning the battle against terror
in America today.
In America today, there is a strong, clear, cold conviction. We will
punish those who committed these acts, and we will make our Nation safe
again. America is as united as it has been in its history. Death and
tragedy was one result of Tuesday's attack. What the terrorists did not
know is that they would create so much American unity.
The act of terror and inhumanity has produced American heroism that
few people have witnessed in their lifetimes. Before our very eyes in
the last 3 days we have seen another generation rise to the moral
challenge of our time.
Jeremy Glick, on the United flight which crashed in Pennsylvania,
called his wife on a cell phone to say his plane had been hijacked, and
three of us, he said, are going to fight. His wife told him about the
attack on the World Trade Center. We have credible reason to believe
that he and other passengers brought down their plane so that others
could live another day.
New York City Fire Chief Peter Ganci stood with a multichannel radio
at the foot of One World Trade Center, and with smoke swirling around
his head, trying amid the chaos to organize the rescue effort, the
building collapsed. The chief died.
New York City Fire Department Chaplain Mychal Judge went to the tower
to minister to victims. He was hit by debris in the head. He died.
More than 250 firefighters ran into the building that others were
running out of so that they could try to get up the steps to save
others. They are all missing.
Yesterday, when I went to the Pentagon with Members here, a general
told of how a woman found one person passed out with fumes in the
aftermath of the attack. She lifted the person up, he said, threw her
from the window and then saved the person's life and then threw herself
out the window to save her own life.
New Yorkers line streets in Manhattan holding signs and flags in
celebration of our rescue workers going off to rescue other Americans.
Americans descended on emergency centers, set up by workers from the
Red Cross, stood for hours in line so they could give their blood so
life could be pumped into the lives of the wounded.
There was a story this morning on the radio of a volunteer rescue
worker who said he was in New York digging through rubble in search for
survivors because, he said, we are digging for freedom.
Our people, the wonderful, good, decent people of this country are
responding in heroic ways, and they are fighting back against this
absolute evil that visited itself on our great country on Tuesday. They
are rising to this challenge just as earlier generations have met
challenges that confronted them.
Congress debates this historic resolution in their spirit and with
them for our inspiration and as our guide. We literally and
figuratively tonight are following the lead of the American people.
Humanity at its best.
Alexis de Tocqueville in the 19th century observed about our country
and its people, he said America is great because she is good, and if
America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.
Everything that is happening today is happening because Americans are
still good and America is still great.
Finally, we must recognize and understand a fundamental truth. Our
foes caused enormous death and destruction, but their greater goal is
to instill fear in the heart of every American.
{time} 2100
We will conquer that foe. We will not be defeated. We will not
succumb. We will not fear. We will always rise up, as we have through
our history, and we will face fear down.
Our challenge is to draw on the goodness, the decency, the bravery,
and the humanity that has always defined this great country. I know in
my heart we will prevail. We will face this foe, and we will not adopt
the characteristics of those who attack us. We will not forget the
civil liberties of our people. We will not discriminate. We will not
use prejudice. We will not succumb to hatred in fighting this foe. We
will not be divided.
Two months ago, the Foreign Minister in Germany told me that what he
found so impressive about America was that he had never known such a
powerful Nation to use its power so responsibly. I have faith in
ourselves, in our fellow human beings; and I have faith in God to see
us through. I am guided in my belief by my faith, which is best
expressed in the hymn, ``Be Not Afraid.'' ``Be not afraid. I go before
you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.''
Our people have courage, our military will defend, our President will
have our support and our trust to bring our foes to justice; and with
God's help, we will be free and our people will be healed.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New
York (Mr. Boehlert), the chairman of the Committee on Science.
(Mr. BOEHLERT asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. BOEHLERT. Mr. Speaker, Shaw said, ``Some men see things as they
are and ask why. I dream things that never were and ask why not.'' My
dream, the collective dream of all Americans, is a world at peace, a
world in which equal opportunity for all prevails.
I cannot explain the why of the events of the past few days, but I
can and will continue to share in that collective dream of all
Americans. As I see it, this resolution, which we should and will pass,
is not a resolution designed to promote war, rather it is one seeking
to advance the cause of a secure world and a just and lasting peace.
Mr. Speaker, Mr. Minority leader, my colleagues, I am proud to serve
with you in this great institution. I am proud to serve under our
commander in chief, the President of the United States. But most of
all, I am proud of the strength and the character and the resolve and
the common purpose of the American people. That character, that
strength, that resolve, that common purpose is represented here in the
people's House. We are united. We are strong. We are determined.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my friend
and colleague, the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Neal).
(Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts asked and was given permission to revise
and extend his remarks.)
Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, this evening I stand in the
strongest position of support for the resolution that is in front of us
and that has been carefully negotiated and in coming days, weeks, and
months will play out, and also to offer unqualified support tonight for
President Bush in the difficult days, weeks, and months ahead that
surely will confront this Nation.
It is to be a difficult time. But as we witness the bravery and the
heroism of those men and women of New York City and those families who
have lost loved ones as well at the Pentagon, we know the resolve of
the American people. I supported the Iraqi incursion a decade ago in
one of the most difficult votes in this House. Tonight, this vote is
not easy either, knowing as well that when the days grow very
difficult, it will require the strength of all the American people. But
tonight let us resolve to proceed with vigor, not vengeance, in
remembrance of those who have been lost over the last 3 tragic days.
The same comments I offered on Wednesday night I offer tonight:
strength to the American people and wisdom to President Bush and this
Congress.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
California (Mr. Royce).
[[Page H5660]]
Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, the horrendous attack we have suffered and
our national response will prove to be a pivotal event in world
history. Our Nation is now embarked on a fight for freedom. Some
nations will stand up and be with us, and we may even be surprised by
who our friends are. We will have many allies, but others will be
against us.
Secretary Powell and others are working the phones now making key
determinations. I think we all understand that we can only act
decisively. There can be no pinprick strikes. Terrorism will only get
worse unless we act to eradicate it now.
Several years ago, during a hearing on Afghanistan, Members of
Congress, including myself, warned that the war-torn country of
Afghanistan was rapidly evolving into a serious threat to national
security. Many rang the bell. It went unanswered. We will now have to
act, as we should have acted before, to root out the terrorist camps
and destroy their infrastructure, including destroying any governments
supporting them.
President Bush spoke eloquently to the American people today from the
National Cathedral. I believe that Americans are willing to follow his
leadership and make the sacrifices needed to win and survive as the
country we know and love.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my good
friend and colleague, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Payne), a
distinguished member of the Committee on International Relations.
(Mr. PAYNE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity to travel with the
President to New York today, with other colleagues from the region, to
view the devastation left in the aftermath of Tuesday's tragic events
and to meet with the volunteers and professionals who have made such a
heroic effort to help the victims and their families.
Tonight, we stand united in sending a message to the world that we
will rise above this senseless act; that we will not let the actions of
a group of fanatics destroy our spirit. As we move to give the
President the authority to use all necessary and appropriate force in
responding to these unprovoked attacks, let us be sure that we remain
true to our American principles by enacting a plan which protects the
American people and strengthens the bonds with our allies.
However, as we raise our powerful swift sword, let us be mindful of
the fact that the overriding majority of people who live in these rogue
nations are themselves victims of their governments. They are being
oppressed by their leaders.
I stand committed to working together to build an effective anti-
terrorism policy which will make our country and our world safer so
that we will never have a recurrence of the nightmare we experienced
last Tuesday again.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Ohio (Mr. Regula), a member of the Committee on Appropriations.
(Mr. REGULA asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. REGULA. Mr. Speaker, events of the past week have given all of us
great pride in America, great pride in the people of this Nation and
the way in which they responded to our crisis. But tonight we also have
a moment of pride, and that is that we are a Nation of laws; that we
are a Nation that follows the rule of law; and that in this action, in
this resolution, we are respecting the Constitution of the United
States.
The Constitution says that the Congress shall have the power to lay
and collect taxes and to provide for the common defense and general
welfare of the United States, to declare war, to provide calling forth
the militia to repel invasions. That is what we are doing. But it also
provides that the President shall be commander in chief of the forces
of this Nation.
I think this resolution says eloquently that we are a Nation of laws;
that we respond in a measured way, as provided in the Constitution of
the United States; and that we can take pride in our response along
with the people in their response to the events of this week.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 3 minutes to my good
friend and colleague, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Menendez), the
vice chair of the Democratic Caucus.
Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this
time.
In times of tragedy, America pulls together and America gets
stronger. We defeated the forces of evil in World War II, we turned
economic crisis into economic opportunities and beat the Great
Depression, and we can and will defeat these forces too.
Every war is different. No challenge is the same. This will be a
battle unlike any other, fought with new tools and methods; fought with
intelligence and brute force, rooting out the enemies among us and
those outside our borders. This war may be different, but we have the
capabilities to win; and we will not rest until we have wiped the evil
of terrorism from the face of the Earth.
There is nowhere they can hide where we will not hunt them. There is
nowhere they will be safe from our wrath. We will consider any person
or nation who harbors them or aids them or authorizes their activities
to be just as guilty. If you harbor our enemy, then you are our enemy.
If you help our enemy, then you are our enemy. Our resolve has no end.
Our commitment is total.
In times of tragedy, America pulls together and America gets
stronger. That is what we are here to do today: to stand united, to say
to the world there are no partisans here, only patriarchs. There is no
difference between Democrats and Republicans, between the Congress and
the President. We are speaking with one voice.
The resolution we are supporting tonight authorizes the President to
use the full range of force available from our military not only to
respond to the terrorist acts on Tuesday but also to prevent future
acts. And we will not be alone in our battle. The enormous evil of
these acts is uniting the civilized world behind a common cause because
the attacks on the World Trade Center and on the Pentagon were attacks
not just against the United States but against humanity itself.
The civilized world is uniting in this common fight because there are
only two sides in it: right or wrong, good or evil. You are with us or
against us. No civilized nation can be allowed to sit on the fence.
I just came back from the site of the tragedy in New York City with
my colleagues. I saw the horrendous results of the terrorists'
unspeakable deeds. And as I stood at ground zero, I was reminded of the
scenes of devastation and bombings from World War II. But what cannot
be seen in that rubble are the broken families and the fatherless and
motherless children left in its wake. We will not let this stand,
because to let this stand would be to let civilization itself perish.
To let it stand would be to let evil prevail. To let this stand would
be to lay down our values of liberty, justice, and freedom.
It has been said that in the long history of the world only a few
generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour
of maximum danger. Tonight, we do not shrink from this responsibility,
we embrace it, and in doing so we send a beacon of light to the rest of
the world.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Georgia (Mr. Deal).
Mr. DEAL of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, by the adoption of this resolution
tonight, let us send one very clear message to the world: we are the
United States of America. We are the United States. We are united.
{time} 2115
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas
(Mr. Turner), the ranking Democrat on the terrorism panel of the
Committee on Armed Services.
Mr. TURNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution
authorizing the President to use all necessary and appropriate force to
seek and destroy those who are responsible for the deadly acts of
terrorism committed against the American people.
Tonight, every Member of this House and every American stand united.
We want to thank the President for his leadership in this time of
national tragedy and national testing of our
[[Page H5661]]
will. We stand with him against the forces of darkness that have broken
our hearts but emboldened our spirits.
We know this war will require our patience, our perseverance, our
unwavering courage and commitment. Our only timetable is to stay the
course until the job is finished. The future of liberty, freedom. And
human dignity hang in the balance and our Nation will not be found
wanting.
May God's wisdom and judgment guide our steps and may God bless
America.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from
Maryland (Mrs. Morella).
(Mrs. MORELLA asked and was given permission to revise and extend her
remarks.)
Mrs. MORELLA. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I examined the war-torn Pentagon
site, the lingering scent of smoke, the ruins of a building, the
courageous rescue workers, including the Montgomery County, Maryland
Search and Rescue Team.
Tonight, as this debate was taking place, I was calling families of
some of the Montgomery County, Maryland victims, victims of the
Pentagon attack. The victims include Michelle Heidenberger, Todd
Reuben, William Caswell, Darin Pontell, Lawrence Getzfred, Ernest
Willcher, Gerald Fisher, Lisa Young, Ted Moy. The list goes on. This is
not New York or Pennsylvania. This is just so far what we have heard
from the Pentagon. There will be a lot more coming, unfortunately,
throughout this Nation.
We offer our prayers and support to these families of these heroes.
We resolve to find the perpetrators and punish them harshly.
Without any question, this terrorist attack on our liberty and
freedom is a strike against all nations that value democracy. It is an
act of war, but we will not be intimidated. No act as cowardly as this
one can go unanswered. I trust the President to act accordingly,
cautiously and appropriately. I will cast my vote. We must stand in
unity, pledging to defend freedom, unity and liberty.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Andrews).
(Mr. ANDREWS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, tonight with the passage of this
resolution, it is time that we move from words to deeds. We must
identify and destroy all those who perpetrated the horror on our
country on Tuesday. We must then move swiftly to cut off their
financing network, their infrastructure network, and all those who
would aid and abet and support them.
Then we must embark on the long struggle of making the nations choose
between obedience to terrorism or subscription to the rule of law and
international cooperation.
There has been much eloquence in this Chamber in recent days from all
sides, and I appreciate it. But the American people will not be
satisfied with our eloquence. They want us to stand with our Armed
Forces, stand with our allies around the world, and swiftly, swiftly
settle the debt owed to us by those who brought harm upon this country
on Tuesday.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New
Jersey (Mr. Frelinghuysen).
Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this
authorization for the President to use all necessary and appropriate
force against those nations, organizations or persons who planned,
authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist acts committed against
our country on September 11, and to prevent any future acts of internal
terrorism against the United States.
Today, Mr. Speaker, along with my colleagues from New Jersey, New
York and Connecticut, I visited lower Manhattan and saw firsthand the
physical destruction and I better understand now the human devastation.
The deaths of our fellow Americans, the destruction of our sovereign
land, and this act of war against all Americans cannot and will not go
unanswered.
As the President spoke to the world today from the National
Cathedral, ``This Nation is peaceful but fierce when stirred to anger.
This conflict was begun on the timing and terms of others. It will end
in a way and in an hour of our own choosing.''
Mr. Speaker, whether the hour be near or far, we stand united with
our President and with the men and women of our Armed Forces.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fattah).
Mr. FATTAH. Mr. Speaker, there were some very bright young people
from the district, here in Washington, who because of their excellent
school work were off on a trip with their teachers who died on
September 11. Along with thousands of others they were the casualties
of this act that was perpetrated.
Today we take this step, and I rise in support of this resolution,
and I rise specifically on behalf of these children, for it is our
responsibility to provide for their protection, to provide for their
promise and their potential.
Whatever the perceived real grievance is of those who took this
action, attacking innocent children and thousands of other innocent
Americans is unacceptable.
We must respond. We know not what the tactics or strategy or play of
this engagement will be, but we must act.
Mr. Speaker, I stand and I support this resolution.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Ohio (Mr. Chabot), a member of the Committee on International
Relations.
Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, tonight we stand with our President as our
Nation prepares to do battle with those who seek to destroy the
American way of life. Tonight we vote to give our President full
authority to use America's full military might against those
responsible for this week's despicable attacks against the United
States and its people.
A strong response to the deplorable attacks on the United States is
essential. The terrorist infrastructure must be destroyed, and the
message must go out to all who seek to harm us in the future that
America will respond to cowardly acts of violence against our people
quickly and decisively.
These are dark days for America, but we will work together to seek
justice for the victims of terrorism and to ensure that such
contemptible acts never again occur.
Mr. Speaker, I urge support of the resolution. God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from
California (Ms. Pelosi).
Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this
time.
Tonight we are walking on holy ground. We are prayerfully mourning
the loss of thousands of Americans who have lost their lives. We are
trying a way to comfort their families and give them peace.
At the same time, we are discussing a resolution on the use of force
to bring the cowardly terrorists to justice and to make sure that we
never have to suffer this horror again. To this end, I support this
resolution because it clearly states that nothing in this resolution
supersedes the requirements of the War Powers Act.
Mr. Speaker, many of my colleagues have quoted President Roosevelt of
another horrible day in our country's life, that this day will live in
infamy. I want to also quote his wisdom when he said, ``We have nothing
to fear but fear itself,'' because that is the goal of the terrorist,
to instill fear in the American people. That would be their greatest
victory. But the spirit of the American people and the unity that we
will show them tonight should give them a clue that they will not have
that success.
Yes, we are walking on holy ground, and as we proceed in discussing
the use of force, we must proceed in a manner that will bring honor to
those who have died. We must bring honor to their memory. May they rest
in peace.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas
(Mr. Edwards).
Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, with this vote of resolve and unity, we
become stewards of the American values expressed so eloquently 40 years
ago by a new President, John F. Kennedy, ``Let every Nation know,
whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any
burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to
assure the survival and the success of liberty.''
Today a new President and a new generation are handed the torch of
liberty that has been kept alight by the
[[Page H5662]]
untold sacrifices of past generations of Americans.
Those terrorists who now challenge the will and values of this
generation of Americans will soon find out that the awesome power of
our military might well be matched only by our tenacious national unity
in defending Americans' life and liberty.
In this vote and in our prayers, we in Congress speak for the
American family, in strong support of our Commander in Chief and say,
yes, we too will ``pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship,''
and ``oppose any foe'' to protect our land of liberty.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the distinguished
gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Meehan).
Mr. MEEHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution before
us to give our Commander in Chief and President the authority to use
military action against these cowards who made such an unprecedented
evil attack against the United States of America.
We must respond to terrorism and respond swiftly, not only to the
terrorists, but as the President so accurately said, to anyone who
would harbor terrorists anywhere in the world, whether they be
countries or individuals.
As a member of the Committee on Armed Services, I have confidence in
the men and women who serve this country in uniform. They are the
smartest, the brightest, the most well equipped and well trained
fighting force in the world. I have confidence in the Commander in
Chief and the national security team to make sure that we are
successful in this effort. But we must be patient and understand that
we need a broad and sustained campaign in order to win the battle on
terrorism.
Mr. Speaker, I believe standing together as a Nation, and this is the
most united I have ever seen this House in 9 years, I believe we will
win this battle. God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from
California (Ms. Millender-McDonald), the chair of the Democratic
Women's Caucus.
Ms. MILLENDER-McDONALD. Mr. Speaker, today is a day I hoped I would
never have to face, a day on which I would need to support the use of
force. I am sure that all of my colleagues agree that when we took the
oath of office to honor and defend our country, we hoped and prayed we,
as Members of Congress, would not have to use force to defend this
Nation.
On Tuesday morning, however, we all knew that the only response that
would be understood by the evil force that undertook these treacherous
actions would be the powerful response of the greatest military force
in the world, the United States military.
However, our resolve must be based on the rule of law and reflect the
lessons learned from history. The use of force is not something that we
as Americans take lightly. America is a peace-loving Nation. Our
involvement in World War II is the strongest example of America's
peace-loving ways. We waged war on ruthless Naziism that threatened the
very concept of humanity and the lives of entire races of people.
Today we face another global threat, terrorism, which once again
threatens the foundation of all peace-loving nations. Today the world
looks to America and this very body for the very clear and unmistakable
message that we as a Nation will not tolerate people and organizations
to operate in opposition to the very foundation that every society is
based upon: the sanctity of human life.
{time} 2130
I pray for our President.
Mr. Speaker, I hope we shall overcome someday.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Virginia (Mr. Tom Davis).
(Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia asked and was given permission to revise
and extend his remarks.)
Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong
support of S.J. Res. 23. With the passage of this joint resolution,
Congress stands united with the President and the brave men and women
in uniform ready to wage war on global terrorism. Although S.J. Res. 23
is not a formal declaration of war, the resolution gives the President
full authority to use force against these terrorists and is similar to
the use of force resolution authorizing military operations during the
Persian Gulf conflict in 1991.
Of course, a key to making this work is the continued willingness of
the executive to continue to consult with legislators. I am confident
the President will do just that. Make no mistake, failure to act in
unison at home and abroad will be interpreted by our enemies as
weakness and an invitation to commit further atrocities. We have to put
aside our differences, quiet our rhetoric and act decisively now.
Mr. Speaker, today I read Leonard Pitts' column in the Miami Herald.
Addressing his words to the faceless cowards responsible for Tuesday's
attacks he wrote:
``It occurs to me that maybe you just wanted us to know the depths of
your hatred. If that's the case, consider the message received. And
take this message in exchange: You don't know my people. You don't know
what we're capable of. You don't know what you just started. But you're
about to learn.''
I urge all my colleagues to support S.J. Res. 23.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my good
friend and colleague, the gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. DeLauro), a
member of the Democratic leadership.
Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
legislation. This week America suffered the worst attack in our
Nation's history. It was an assault on the American people and a threat
to the fundamental freedom that is the strength and the spirit of our
strong Nation. There is no reasonable justification for the vicious
attack that has taken such a toll on the American people.
Each day our intelligence officials obtain more information of the
facts surrounding the events of September 11, 2001. It is clear that
this was a carefully crafted plan for tremendous destruction. The
criminals wanted to create a constant state of fear in American
citizens across our great country. But the American people will not be
bullied. They will not be cowed. Mr. Speaker, our citizens are joined
together in prayer, giving of their time, their love, their resources.
There has never been a greater demonstration of unity.
With this resolution, our government also takes a stand. It reaffirms
Congress' support for the President. It protects the authority of the
Congress. Our Commander in Chief and the Congress will work together to
bring to justice and to punish those responsible for trying to bring
the United States to its knees.
We stand tall. We stand proud. We stand ready to protect our freedom,
our justice, and our liberty.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my
distinguished friend and colleague, the gentleman from Maryland (Mr.
Cummings).
Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, a great atrocity has been leveled against
this Nation and its citizens. We must now seek justice for our Nation,
the American people, and all humanity. But justice comes in many forms
and the scales of justice must be carefully balanced.
On one side, we place our commitment to spare no effort in
eradicating terrorism and punishing those responsible for these
deplorable crimes. On the other, we balance the responsibility to hold
true to our Nation's principles, to be cognizant of innocent life, and
to use military force only when necessary. This is a difficult scale to
balance, but I believe that we have a duty to reach the appropriate
equilibrium that justice requires.
I strongly support the will of this President, Congress, and our
citizenry to defend ourselves against our enemies with unrelenting
force. It is my only hope that such force will be balanced and
guarantees the justice we all deserve.
May God bless America.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Pennsylvania (Mr. Sherwood).
Mr. SHERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, we owe it to our people, we owe it to our
history, we owe it to the folks that made us where we are. We owe it to
those firefighters in New York. We owe it to our military personnel in
the Pentagon. We owe it to those New Yorkers
[[Page H5663]]
that have had their world brought down around their ears.
This resolution is good. It sets out what we are about to do, and I
am in strong support of it. We owe it to the world to show the world
that democracy will stand and that an isolated terrorist cannot hurt
America permanently.
Mr. Speaker, we will send that message. We will send it with
overwhelming force. God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my
distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Wynn).
Mr. WYNN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time.
Secretary of State Powell had it correctly when he said, terrorism is
a scourge on our civilization. I am pleased to stand in support of this
call, this call of our military might to thwart the forces of
terrorism. I am pleased because we must bring these terrorists not just
to justice but to a punishment that will not soon be forgotten.
But I also want to call up tonight our most important weapon, our
national will. We must have the will to send a clear signal that our
fight is with terrorists, not with the Muslim world. We must have the
will in the face of gas lines, in the face of inconveniences, in the
face of checkpoints. We must have the will to fight over the long haul.
And we have that will. We must have the will and the resolve to make it
clear that while we will make adjustments in our life-styles, we will
not surrender our fundamental freedoms.
In the final analysis, I believe the terrorists think we are too
soft, that we are the soft, materialistic infidel. I think, as in World
War II, we will show them they are wrong, because the message from our
national will will be clear and simple. We will not yield. God bless
America.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to my good friend, the
gentleman from New York (Mr. Houghton).
Mr. HOUGHTON. Mr. Speaker, tonight we talk patriotism, and we should.
And we talk sacrifice, and we should. And we talk courage. We talk all
those things about humanity and we should. But I do think it is
important for the American people to realize that this is going to be a
very arduous, difficult, nasty, drawn-out struggle. One of the great
characteristics and many times it is unsung, but it is there, is
perseverance. Just keeping on going. It is so important that we as a
public and citizens understand that, because this is not going to be
something which brave words will conquer. It is only our perseverance.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my good
friend, the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Schakowsky).
Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. I thank the gentleman for yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, along with all of my colleagues and all Americans, I
believe that the United States of America must respond effectively and
appropriately to this unprecedented attack on our people and our
Nation. This resolution gives awesome responsibility to the President
of the United States, but it should not be interpreted as unlimited
power to use force or commit troops.
This resolution has been carefully drafted to restrict our response
to those we know to be responsible for this atrocity. It is not a carte
blanche for the use of force. This resolution requires compliance with
the war powers resolution which directs the President to report to the
Congress and to consult whenever possible. These requirements and this
power must not be taken lightly.
I have thought long and hard about this vote. I do not want to regret
it. I want to be able to tell my grandchildren that I voted this night
to make the world safer. I pray that in supporting this resolution, we
are making the right decision, and I pray that the President will make
the right decisions.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to my good
friend and distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Rhode Island
(Mr. Langevin).
Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, tonight I rise in support of the
resolution authorizing the use of force to combat the terrorist attacks
of September 11, 2001.
Mr. Speaker, the terrorist acts of cruelty and inhumanity committed 3
days ago have not weakened our Nation. Instead, the American people
have forged stronger bonds and have demonstrated the compassion and
concern that make our Nation great. United in our resolve, the United
States is prepared to take action against those who have threatened us.
America has the determination, strength and courage to combat the
scourge of terrorism. We will identify the people, powers, and
organizations that have contributed to terrorism, we will hold them
accountable for their inhumanity, and we absolutely will not stop. We
will succeed.
In the coming weeks, the men and women in our military and
intelligence communities will be called upon to serve their Nation. I
commend them for their dedication and their bravery. I also call upon
the American people to maintain the solidarity demonstrated in recent
days and to focus on the true enemy instead of targeting innocent
people because of skin color or customs or beliefs. Americans of all
faiths, races, and backgrounds join in condemnation of terrorism and
together we shall prove victorious.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield such time as she may
consume to the distinguished gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. Hooley).
(Ms. HOOLEY of Oregon asked and was given permission to revise and
extend her remarks.)
Ms. HOOLEY of Oregon. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the
resolution.
Mr. Speaker, every fourth of July, we celebrate our national
independence. It's a day when nearly all of us have the day off from
work, a day when we can gather with our families for a cook out, and
maybe attend the local parade or spend the day lounging by the pool.
It's a day when we can see the latest Hollywood Blockbuster--this past
year it was Pearl Harbor, a movie based on what, until this past
Tuesday, was the most horrible attack ever on American soil.
Because vacation days are so hard to come by, many of us base our
vacations around the 4th. This isn't necessarily for the sake of the
holiday, but to simply save a vacation day. And while there's nothing
wrong with any of the above practices, time and prosperity have
mellowed the significance of our national birthday, as they have
Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
Mr. Speaker, that's unfortunate for the simple reason that on nights
like this one, we're reminded that no one gave us our freedom. No one
gave us our liberty. And while their underlying principles were
germinated in peaceful venues and distributed on pamphlets or word of
mouth, ultimately they were borne through battle.
Maybe our children don't understand, but the United Nations wasn't
there to let our forefathers conduct a plebiscite on whether the 13
colonies should remain part of England. Maybe we've become so used to
living side-by-side with African Americans we forget there wasn't any
multi-national force willing to die by the tens of thousands to free
their ancestors from slavery. And maybe we've grown so used to violence
as entertainment the grainy images of Pearl Harbor don't affect us any
more--now we need a Hollywood movie to convey the importance of a
national tragedy.
Mr. Speaker, as we consider this resolution tonight, remember this:
our freedom, our unity, our very way of life exist because previous
generations of Americans have time and time again been willing to place
a higher value on our freedom than on their own lives.
As much as I disdain the notion that taking human life is a decision
for politicians to make--events of this week have placed us in a
position where, as previous members of this body have done before, we
must ask our fellow citizens to once again fight those who detest all
we stand for.
To all my colleagues assembled here tonight, understand this: there
will be Americans who will not survive the fighting to come. There will
be casualties, both physical and psychological. There will be parents
who lose their only children. There will be spouses who lose their
soulmates, and children who will be orphaned. There will be small towns
who will lose the child who sang the best in the church choir, and big
city neighborhoods who see young person always playing basketball come
home without legs, or without arms.
If we are going to send Americans to forever silence those working to
sow terror and horror against our Nation, then let us do everything in
our power to ensure they have the resources to achieve a total victory.
Let us ensure that when they come home Congress honors their
sacrifice, not solely with parades, but for the rest of their lives.
Let us pledge tonight that veterans of this and every war are treated
as first-class citizens, as well as the millions of Americans who
[[Page H5664]]
served our nation without having to fire a shot in anger. No longer
should they have to wait weeks for medical treatment. No longer should
they be homeless on our streets or go without psychological treatment
if needed. No longer should our retirees see their pensions hijacked to
help balance our budget.
War is a serious business, and we shouldn't take what we're about to
do lightly. Yes, the attacks of September 11, 2001 require us to
eradicate an enemy that has proven to be more deadly than any we've
ever faced. Support this resolution, and support our men and women in
the armed forces. But remember their sacrifices not just today, but
years from now after they have won this war, when Memorial Day or the
4th of July are once again excuses to take a break from work or to
spend an afternoon off enjoying ourselves with friends and family.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New
York (Mr. Grucci).
(Mr. GRUCCI asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. GRUCCI. Mr. Speaker, I, along with a number of my colleagues from
New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, visited what is now known as
ground zero in New York's lower Manhattan, the site where the two proud
buildings of the World Trade Center once stood. I watched on the faces
of those who were working and those who were volunteering. And while
there was sadness in their eyes, there was a determination in their
movement, in their step, and in their actions. There was a commitment
on their part to hold together and to band together and to do what
needs to be done in that Herculean effort in trying to move the tons of
rubble and steel to look for the precious body that still may be
gasping for air and waiting for arrival of those to come to help them.
I stood with those who were working, and I understood their pain in
their heart and the sadness in their face but the determination that
they have to make sure that those who perpetrated this crime never do
it again, not to us but not to anyone in the world.
Mr. Speaker, I rise to support this resolution tonight. But, more
than that, I rise as a proud American with all of my colleagues here in
this House and all Americans throughout this country. We will find
those who have done this and bring them to justice.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from New York (Mr. Israel).
Mr. ISRAEL. I thank the gentleman for yielding time.
Mr. Speaker, today I also join the President of the United States and
Democrats and Republicans from this House in a place of war and a place
of hope. In the wreckage of the World Trade Center, we saw the signs of
war, twisted steel, shattered windows, smoking ruins. But, Mr. Speaker,
amidst the devastation we saw the signs of America: small flags planted
in the rescue workers' helmets, people weary from digging to save
lives, yet still able to raise their hands high over their heads and
chant ``USA, USA'' when our President arrived.
I met with Long Islanders, my constituents, one from East Islip, the
other from Huntington Station, who had been on the scene tirelessly
since this calamity in a heroic effort to save lives and rebuild our
city. I salute them and all of our unsung heroes who continue the
efforts to provide comfort in a time of tragedy and save lives in a
time of war.
{time} 2145
Mr. Speaker, we did not choose this fight, it chose us; and now we
have no choice but to strike back in the defense of our lives, to
defend our way of life, and to remember throughout the ordeal to come
what this fight is about, the lives that were lost and the freedoms and
liberties that we preserve.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from
New York (Mr. Gilman), the chairman emeritus.
(Mr. GILMAN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this joint resolution
authorizing the just use of force against those who have attacked our
Nation.
Our Constitution places the Congress at the center of any decision to
use force over any extended period of time. It is time for us to
carefully weigh and support this important decision.
It is long past due for armed action against those who have
barbarically attacked our Nation. The individuals and nations involved
in this terrorism deserve to feel the full wrath of our great Nation,
and I am confident they will feel the wrath of the entire civilized
world. The American people will lead that worldwide effort, united
behind our commander in chief.
Earlier today I had the honor, along with my colleagues, to accompany
President Bush to my home city of New York, witnessing firsthand the
incredible abominable destruction at the World Trade Center. The
President movingly encouraged those workers dedicated to rescuing the
missing.
America is united behind our President, behind our Armed Forces, and
behind all those who will join in our war against terrorism. And our
Nation will not stand alone. We are all moved by the many
manifestations of solidarity and sympathy that have come from leaders
throughout the world.
Mr. Speaker, our people have borne the deep pain and sorrow of this
ruthless attack. We are beginning our recovery; and, by this
legislation, for which I urge support, we are ready to defeat
terrorism.
God bless America, and may God bless the American people.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield such time as he may
consume to the gentleman from Vermont (Mr. Sanders).
(Mr. SANDERS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. SANDERS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, as you know, under the authority of the War Powers Act
the President already has the legal right to use force when this
country is attacked--as was the case on Tuesday when some 5,000
Americans were killed in an unspeakable act of terrorism. So, in an
important respect, this debate is more symbolic than legally necessary.
Americans have prayed in churches, synagogues, mosques and other
places of worship over the last four days. They have prayed for
strength, for courage, for an end to this horror, and for peace. They
have heard sermons that spoke of love being stronger than hate, of the
forces of good triumphing over evil. I will vote for this resolution
because I believe that the use of force is one tool that we have at our
disposal to fight against the horror of terrorism and mass murder. One
tool but it is not our only tool, and it is something that must be used
wisely . . . and with great discretion.
I believe that we must work with other nations to root out, capture
and eliminate the terrorists who have caused such terrible suffering in
our country and elsewhere. But we must also understand that widespread
and indiscriminate force could lead to more violence and more anti-
Americanism.
Mr. Speaker, the people of the developing world must know that we do
not hate them, but only the terrorists who hide in their midsts and
control their lives. By word and deed, we must show those people that
we are on their side, rather than the terrorists who exploit them.
Mr. Speaker, the President has an enormous responsibility. I pray
that he uses it well and that Congress provides him with effective
guidance.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans), the ranking member of the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the resolution
authorizing the President to use military force against the terrorist
threat facing our Nation.
The events of this week will be forever seared into the memory of
this Nation. The sheer scale of this tragedy is almost unimaginable. In
a single day, we lost more Americans than some of our bloodiest battles
of our history, and it happened on our soil.
The shock and horror of these unconscionable acts have quickly turned
into anger and rage. However, we must put this all into perspective. By
passing the resolution before us today, we will show that America will
act forcefully and decisively in the face of unspeakable evil. The
resolution will empower the President and the armed services to take
the steps necessary to defeat the forces of terrorism and punish the
culprits who are responsible for these heinous acts.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Connecticut (Mr. Shays), the chairman of
[[Page H5665]]
the Subcommittee on National Security of the Committee on Government
Reform.
(Mr. SHAYS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I have prepared remarks, but I would just
like to speak from my heart that when you go to the Pentagon and when
you go to see ground zero in New York, you see an incredible contrast,
the carnage of the buildings and the hope and vitality of the people.
When President Bush was there today and he stood up to speak to some
of the rescue workers, some of them could not hear, and they yelled
out, ``We can't hear you.'' And he turned around to them and said,
``But we can hear you. The whole world can hear you. And soon, those
who committed this dastardly, cowardly act, will hear from us.''
I am voting for this resolution so that they will hear from us. If I
have one regret, it is that we did not give a President, our President,
this power a few years ago to respond to terrorism when it first
struck.
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people I represent, I rise in strong
support of authorizing the use of our Armed Forces against those
responsible for the carnage in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington.
Acts of war have been committed against innocent men, women, and
children going about the daily business and routines that are American
life. After a decade of peace, we are reminded in the harshest way that
the United States has violent and cowardly enemies--that while the cold
war is over, the world is a more dangerous place.
A decade ago, Congress considered a resolution authorizing another
President George Bush to use all means necessary to liberate Kuwait, a
resolution I strongly supported. To this day, I consider the vote on
that measure to have been the most important vote I cast during my
service in the House.
Today, we face a far more daunting task. This time, our enemy is
faceless. It hides in the shadows. Its mission is morally and
spiritually bankrupt. It's united only in its hatred for our democratic
ideals and peaceful way of life.
The path that lies ahead is a dangerous one. Defeating this enemy
won't be easy, and it won't come quickly. Yet I am confident that
authorizing force will save lives by preventing future acts of
terrorism, and so I cast my vote without reservation.
Mr. Speaker, this is a defining moment for our nation. After
consoling the families who have lost loved ones and after healing the
wounded, our duty as a free people is to support, with all the
resources available to us, the many men and women waging the war
against terrorism.
I pray for the wisdom of our leaders, the courage of our Armed
Forces, and that we will prevail over the evil that attacked us this
week.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Barrett).
Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, America stands united tonight.
We stand united with our President, and we support him.
We stand united as a people, so the world will know we cannot and
will not permit these terrorists to rob us of our loved ones.
We stand united to defeat any attempts of terrorists to rob us of our
freedom. We shall never surrender that freedom.
We stand united in support of the men and women who serve us in the
Armed Forces and who will help us achieve justice.
We shall respond, and we will never forget the victims of this
horrific attack.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee).
(Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked and was given permission to revise
and extend her remarks.)
Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that America
will respond, and we will respond in a unified, factual and deliberate
and committed manner, we will act out of resolve and out of faith. So,
I rise to support this resolution.
We are today giving the President the authority to go after the
people involved in these terrorist acts. However there is a dual
responsibility of the Congress and the President to work together in
times of aggression against those who would do harm to the United
States. It must be done with the administration, the President of the
United States, in consultation with Congress.
I am prepared to support this resolution. I know there are others in
this country who are fearful of entering into hostilities and war; but
I do believe that, in consultation under the War Powers Act of 1973, we
are headed in the right direction, for that act ensures that the
collective judgment of both the Congress and the President will apply
to the introduction of United States Armed Forces into hostilities or
into situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly
indicated by the circumstances and to the continued use of such forces
and hostilities or in such situations.
We are unified--our country must respond. We are determined to stand
against those who have acted violently against the United States in
order to bring about such a loss of life that we would crumble from
FEAR. Never will that happen, because the principles that strengthen us
of God and country--like truth will march on.
Mr. Speaker, Members of this Congress are truly united in their faith
in God and country. That's why we are unwaivered in our convictions and
resolve to defend America and our interests against the acts of terror
and cowardice perpetrated against us on September 11, 2001 at the World
Trade Center, the Pentagon, and the crash in Somerset County,
Pennsylvania. These egregious acts against humanity took the lives of
thousands of innocent civilians that spanned God's spectrum of every
race, ethnicity and religious denomination.
In 1973, The War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148) was passed
over the veto of President Nixon, in order to provide procedures for
Congress and the President to participate in decisions to send U.S.
Armed Forces into hostilities.
Such force is constitutional under the Necessary and Proper Clause
which specifically provided that ``Congress shall have the power to
make all laws necessary and proper for carrying into execution, not
only its own powers but also all other powers vested by the
Constitution in the Government of the United States. . . . ''
The policy behind this power, entrusted to the President as Commander
in Chief, to deploy U.S. armed forces to defend itself is ``exercised
only pursuant to: (1) A declaration of war; (2) specific statutory
authorization; or (3) a national emergency created by attack upon the
United States, its territories or possessions, or its armed forces.''
Pursuant to this authority, the President ``in every possible
instance'' shall consult with Congress before deploying U.S. Armed
Forces, and to continue consultations as long as the armed forces
remain in hostile situations.
By authorizing military action under the War Powers Act the American
people not only support the President, but they also provide guidance
through their elected leaders that the actions this great nation takes
are neither over broad nor inadequate. This congress can and must
assure the proper response and level of retaliation.
Mr. Speaker, the acts of aggression perpetrated against us certainly
qualify under the War Powers Act, and such consultations between the
President and the Congress are also clearly upon us.
America has suffered perhaps the greatest attack and act of
aggression in its history. Thousands of people were killed and injured
in this horrific act, simply because they were Americans and for their
common love of freedom and democracy. Therefore there is little doubt
that collaboration between Congress and the Executive is justified in
this instance, as a matter of statutory and constitutional law.
The need for calm in compiling and analyzing the facts and evidence
in this tragedy is great. Also the need for restraint and cultural
sensitivity towards those in our communities who live as Americans, but
who happen to be American Muslims, Arab-Americans and Asian-Americans.
As Americans, we must demonstrate in this, our darkest hour, what makes
us truly great: our love and acceptance of inclusiveness and cultural
diversity. We must not attack innocent Americans who are simply
different.
But upon our discovery of the culprits of these heinous acts, our
response must be deliberate and firm. The actions we take today set us
upon a new course in history. Not unlike what the Founding Fathers
faced against an unfathomable enemy and an inconceivable challenge.
This Congress, like those brave patriots before us, pledges its sacred
honor and stands at the precipice of this new world unafraid. We will
overcome this terrible period in the history of our country and we will
overcome.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lofgren).
[[Page H5666]]
Ms. LOFGREN. Mr. Speaker, I intend to vote for this resolution.
Nearly every Member of Congress this week has said this: on Tuesday,
September 11, our country was brutally attacked. It was an act of war.
It demands response.
Under our Constitution, the President of the United States is
commander in chief. When America is attacked, he assumes the
obligations of the commander in chief. It does not matter whether the
President is someone you voted for. Our country has only one President
and only one commander in chief.
This resolution authorizes the use of force by America. As a matter
of law, the War Powers Act may not even require this resolution. The
President likely already has the legal authority needed.
But this afternoon most of us prayed together at the National
Cathedral. At the end of the service, we stood together and we sang
``The Battle Hymn of the Republic.'' As we sang, I could not help but
recall that when ``The Battle Hymn of the Republic'' was written, our
country was divided, and it was the last time on American soil when
massive numbers of Americans died in war, until this Tuesday. At the
end of the song, we sang, ``As He died to make men holy, let us die to
make men free.''
While this resolution may not be legally required, it is important to
show that we are united; that when America is attacked, Americans stand
together. Those who died on Tuesday will have died to make us free.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield such time as he may
consume to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cardin).
(Mr. CARDIN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker. I rise in support of Senate Joint Resolution
23, a resolution to authorize the use of United States Armed Forces
against those responsible for the recent attacks launched against the
United States and its citizens. September 11, 2001, will be a date that
will live forever in the hearts and minds of freedom loving people. On
that date our country was attacked by terrorists in a way thought
impossible. Thousands of innocent men, women, and children were
murdered. It has touched the lives of thousands of families and of all
Americans. It was an attack on our people and our freedom. The
resolution before us authorizes the President to take the appropriate
action including if needed the use of our military against those
nations, organizations or people who planned, authorized, committed or
aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001. The
resolution specifically directs that such action be targeted to prevent
any future acts of international terrorism against the United States by
such entities.
Mr. Speaker, we have an obligation to protect the safety of our
citizens, particularly those within our own country. This resolution
helps us carry out that responsibility. Our military force must only be
used when it is clearly justified. This resolution limits that use to
respond to the September 11 attack on our Nation. It is not only
justified, but there is no more legitimate use of military than to
defend one's country from acts of foreign attack. The resolution
recognizes the role and responsibility of Congress in authorizing and
committing our military to hostile action. The Constitution provides
that the Congress has the power to ``provide for the common defense''
and the power to ``declare war''. The resolution strikes the right
balance between the President and Congress and is in compliance with
the War Powers Act, making it clear of the President's obligations to
consult with and inform Congress. Now is the time for Congress to act.
Let those who were responsible for these horrible deeds know that the
Congress and the President and the American People are united and are
resolved to bring the perpetrators to justice and to prevent such acts
from ever happening again on our shores.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis).
Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues in
support of this resolution authorizing the President to use military
force against those responsible for the September 11, 2001, attack on
America.
In addition, Mr. Speaker, to all of those who have lost their lives
and loved ones or been injured, on behalf of the people of the Seventh
District of Illinois, we extend to them our heartfelt condolences.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, we commend all of those who have committed
tremendous acts of bravery, who have given of themselves during this
period, who have given even their lives so that others might live. We
thank them for their acts of heroism, and we shall stand together.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Frost), the distinguished Chair of the
Democratic Caucus.
Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, today we debate the gravest and most
important matter that ever comes before the Congress, the use of
military force.
Mr. Speaker, the cowardly, barbaric attack of September 11 was an
assault on America, on humanity and on the civilized world. It was the
cold-blooded calculated murder of untold thousands of innocent
Americans. It was nothing less than evil, plain and simple.
Mr. Speaker, September 11 changed much about America and the world,
but I am proud to say that it has not perverted our democratic system.
That is because the Congress and the President, as coequal branches of
government, have worked together, consulting closely throughout the
process. As a result, we have agreed to this resolution.
So we speak with one voice tonight, Mr. Speaker, and the House will
overwhelmingly vote to authorize the President to use military force to
respond to the terrorist acts of September 11.
Mr. Speaker, the United States is united in its commitment to
bringing to justice those who perpetrated this assault on our people.
But make no mistake, this campaign may be long and it may be difficult.
As we take this action tonight, let us pray for the men and women of
our armed services as they undertake this assignment for our Nation.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New
York (Mr. Ackerman), a senior member of the Committee on International
Relations.
(Mr. ACKERMAN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, along with President, I, too, have just
returned from ground zero, the site of the greatest single human
tragedy in our Nation's history. The towering pyramid of wreckage upon
whose perimeter in New York City I have just walked hours ago is a
monument, staggering in its dimensions and horrifying in its
implications.
In that massive tomb, Mr. Speaker, lie the remains of a still-unknown
number of my fellow New Yorkers and our fellow Americans. The
terrorists who murdered these people conceive of themselves as the hand
of God and have executed their wicked judgment against our people. And
what were our countrymen's crimes? Their crime was to go to work in a
free Nation. Their crime was to get on an airplane. Their crime was to
visit one of the greatest cities in the world. And, in many cases, Mr.
Speaker, their crime was to attempt to save the lives of other human
beings.
Mr. Speaker, the kind of havoc, murder and carnage which the
terrorists have inflicted upon our Nation can only be compared to war.
And war, Mr. Speaker, is what we will give them back. We know which
neighborhoods these people live in. We know who their landlords are. We
will find out where they get their paychecks. We will hunt them down,
not only the most obvious of their public leaders, but also the most
hidden of their private supporters.
Tonight, Mr. Speaker, evil again is on the march, and we must
respond. And respond we will. We will respond to the terror that lives
in the shadows and that hides in the dark.
We know, Mr. Speaker, that we have not borne our final pain; but
America is embarking on a great campaign, one which will not be easy,
one which will take some time. Like the beginning of the Cold War, we
may not be able to foresee the end of this conflict; but, Mr. Speaker,
we can be certain of who the winner will be.
{time} 2200
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Kildee).
Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, unimaginable evil has been perpetrated
against
[[Page H5667]]
our free country. We must authorize our President to take all necessary
actions to prevent those responsible for these dastardly acts from
again inflicting such cowardly malice against our people.
Today our Congress reflects the resolve and unity of the American
people in supporting our President in restoring peace and security to
our peace-loving country. The Commander in Chief of our Armed Forces
has an awesome responsibility. Let us unite behind him as he carries
out his duty to our people.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from California (Mr. Thompson).
Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, tonight I will vote to
support our efforts to stop terrorism.
This is going to be a difficult vote for me. Since early in 1970,
when I stepped off an airplane in Vietnam and joined my infantry unit,
it has been my dream and it has been my prayer that no American would
ever again have to shed their blood nor give their life on foreign
soil. As a Member of Congress, I never dreamed of voting to send our
American men and women into combat, but then I never dreamed I would be
calling the mother and the father of a young man from Eureka,
California, in my district, who was on board one of those hijacked
airplanes on September 11.
This past Tuesday, terrorists attacked America and they attacked the
American people. They murdered thousands of Americans, and we must
ensure that we do all in our power to end terrorism and to stop the
terrorists from striking again. Our country is great because the people
of our country are great, and we will, we will, with resolve, stand
together to protect our freedom.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from New Mexico (Mr. Udall).
(Mr. UDALL of New Mexico asked and was given permission to revise and
extend his remarks.)
Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for
yielding me this time.
Mr. Speaker, when I swore my oath to preserve, protect, and defend
the Constitution of the United States, I never imagined that this
country or I would be where we are today. We each swear our allegiance
to one another and to our country, yet the magnitude of our oath is
only understood when we face situations like we face today. During
trying times such as these, the American spirit shines most brightly
and we find within ourselves the ability to overcome challenges once
thought unthinkable and unimaginable.
The cowardly terrorists perpetrating these unspeakable acts may think
they have won, but they better think again, because they have united
us. A united America will overcome this evil. A united America will
continue to be a beacon for freedom-loving people, and a united America
will prevail in the end.
Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this resolution.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Strickland).
Mr. STRICKLAND. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution.
Mr. Speaker, a previous speaker expressed disappointment that this
resolution is not an explicit declaration of war. Let me reassure the
gentleman. The recipient of America's forthcoming sword of justice will
not be able to recognize the difference.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
distinguished gentleman from Washington (Mr. Inslee).
Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Speaker, as I walked down here, I saw in the
cloakroom NBC News reported that from cell phones they could tell that
the people on the Pennsylvania flight fought the hijackers, and that
that flight was likely targeted for the building where we stand. The
vision of the World Trade Center and the vision of the Citadel, symbol
of democracy for this globe, leads me to know in my heart and in my
gut, this is the right thing for our Nation to do.
Our enemy does not understand our national family. He perceives our
freedom of religion as weakness. He perceives our freedom of speech as
lack of discipline. He is about to discover that he is wrong on all
counts.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur), our distinguished colleague and my
good friend.
Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished gentleman (Mr.
Lantos) for yielding me this time.
I rise tonight in strong support of this resolution to grant
unprecedented authority to our President for the first time in U.S.
history to deploy our Armed Forces against organizations and persons
that are not nation states, as well as those that are nation states. We
take this step with the certain knowledge that our first duty is to
protect and defend our Nation against all enemies, foreign and
domestic. Never have we been more united in our cause.
We also take this step understanding the character of U.S. foreign
policy for the last century has also yielded levels of hate against our
Nation, by omission or commission, that demand deep and immediate
reevaluation. We pray for our people who have had thrust upon them such
unjust suffering. May God bless America and our allies with wisdom. Our
unyielding causes are freedom and justice.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
South Carolina (Mr. Graham).
Mr. GRAHAM. Mr. Speaker, I too join the choir here of support for our
President. This is an historic moment in our country, a sad moment. But
I would just like to express a thought for the future.
We are kidding ourselves if we think this will be easy, and I do not
believe anybody understands it to be easy. We are going to call up
thousands of reservists soon, and we are going to put men and women in
harm's way soon. This will not be a 100-hour ground campaign; this will
not be an air war we watch on TV. This will affect every American
family even deeper than it has now, but it is worth it.
This is the right thing to do. Let us end it now. Let us stand behind
our President and go after the organizations from top to bottom who
perpetrated such a heinous act. We can do it as a Nation if we stay
together and keep the spirit of September 11 alive. Do not give in to
terrorism.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield such time as he or she
may consume to the gentlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Mrs.
Christensen).
(Mrs. CHRISTENSEN asked and was given permission to revise and extend
her remarks.)
Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution.
Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy, heavy heart, to join my colleagues
to authorize our President, to use the necessary and appropriate force
against those who will be identified as the perpetrators of the
terrorists act of Tuesday, September 11, 2001, that killed so many of
our loved ones, in a diabolical attempt to strike fear in the hearts of
our Nation's leaders and all Americans.
Yes, we must vindicate those thousands of lives, like Sgt. Maudlin
White of my district, so that their dying will not be in vain.
But, Mr. Speaker, I stand here humbled by the heavy responsibility
that is ours--the specific authority to declare war that is bestowed by
the Constitution, on us as Members of this body.
And though I stand here with my colleagues, in this awesome time of
decision, I do so as one who is not afforded the opportunity to cast a
vote. At many other times, I have felt the sting of not being fully
able to participate in our democracy, but never more than tonight. For
tonight we authorize our President to send my constituents, like all
others to a war unlike any other before, and perhaps to die for this
country, which we love.
But we must, because now we fight a war, where all of us--at home, at
work, at school, at church, and anywhere--are at risk, as was so
clearly and tragically shown this week. And so, while many of us harbor
reservations about the breadth of the powers bestowed, we must stand by
our President, and for our fellow Americans, and pray for God's wisdom,
and guidance, as he carries out the heavy weight of his office.
Mr. Speaker, if there was ever a time when decisive and immediate
decisive military action would be required as soon as certain
information becomes known, it is in the wake of Tuesday's unprovoked
and unwarranted attacks in which innocent lives were snuffed out, for
no apparent purpose save that of general hatred of Americans, America
and all that she stands for.
[[Page H5668]]
The Bible tells us many things: It teaches that we should ``not
render evil for evil,'' but it also tells us ``if one lives by the
sword, one will die by the sword.'' The perpetrator of Tuesday's
attacks and other attacks surely planned, used and will yet use the
sword of violence against us, unless we stop them.
We must act, and act swiftly and decisively, but we must also prepare
ourselves better to prevent further attacks, and examine through honest
introspection, if we have, in any way, given cause for such hate.
And as we prepare to exact justice on the perpetrators of this
heinous crime, we must also be certain that we are indeed going after
those who committed these crimes, and not be over-reaching in our
response.
We must proceed with extreme and due caution, not so to wage war
based on existing prejudices, motives, or questionable information,
lest we inadvertently become one of the world's terrorists ourselves.
And so, prayerfully, I join my colleagues in support of this
resolution to authorize our President, George W. Bush, to use the
authority vested in him by the Constitution of the United States, to
take action to deter and prevent acts of international terrorism
against the United States and our Allies.
May God bless and keep our President, and may God bless and keep
America, and may our divine Parent bless and keep us all.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Rothman).
(Mr. ROTHMAN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I just returned with some of my colleagues
from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, from Ground Zero, at the
World Trade Center in New York City. It was a terribly disturbing
sight; almost incomprehensible, the magnitude of this horrific crime.
But it was also an incredibly inspiring, uplifting moment, and it
filled me with a tremendous sense of confidence in our future.
Confidence? The police, the firefighters, rescue workers, utility
workers, Armed Forces, volunteers. Together, I know we, 270 million
Americans, will win this war. United. No one can beat us.
It will not be quick or easy, but with the will to do what is
necessary for however long it takes, the people of the United States of
America will triumph, and I have no doubt about that.
We will prevail because the fire of freedom burns in us, and makes us
unbeatable. God bless America.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Connecticut (Mr. Simmons).
Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this joint resolution.
As someone who has seen the face of war for almost 4 years in
Vietnam, I do not relish the idea of returning to this state. But
yesterday I traveled to the Pentagon and today I flew with my
colleagues to New York to visit Ground Zero, my military colleagues and
my constituents who have been killed and are missing in what can only
be called an act of war.
So we have no choice but to respond to these acts with ``all
necessary and appropriate force.'' In the names of the dead and of the
missing, we can do no less. God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to yield 2 minutes to the
gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Lowey), the ranking Democrat on the
Committee on Foreign Operations.
(Mrs. LOWEY asked and was given permission to revise and extend her
remarks.)
Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution.
America stands at a threshold. Behind us lies our sense of security,
now shattered by intentional and brutal acts of war. Before us lies our
solemn obligation. Our steps over this threshold must be deliberate,
they must be firm, and they must be brave.
Today, Congress invokes our authority, derived from our Constitution
and the War Powers Resolution, to authorize the use of force against
enemies of the United States. Our object is not to extract vengeance;
mere retribution will not make Americans safe, nor will it purge
terrorism from this world.
The battles ahead will be against an enemy who knows no boundaries
and has no shame, an enemy with no flag and no official military, who
lurks in the shadows of the world, cloaked in malevolent ideology and
attacks us indiscriminately. These will be battles unlike any we have
ever known and we must stand united with our President, our allies, and
each other as we navigate the coming storm. The coming days and weeks
will give us a clear picture of who stands on the side of justice and
freedom and who does not.
Those who stand against us, actively, by organizing, financing, or
executing terrorism, or passively, by sheltering terrorists and their
allies, or implicitly, by teaching hatred to children or justifying
violence against innocents, will know the full fury of a just and
gentle America aroused. We will not rest until the world is free at
last from the grave threat that struck so hard at our Nation's heart.
Since the end of the Cold War, this Nation has taken much for
granted: our freedom, our liberty, our safety. These days are over, I
say to my colleagues. Today, at this moment, a new generation is being
called upon to defend our way of life and protect our citizens. A new
war is upon our shores. Its first innocent casualties have already
fallen. Let us meet this test with all the unity and will we can
muster, and may God bless America.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the
gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Davis).
(Mrs. DAVIS of California asked and was given permission to revise
and extend her remarks.)
Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, as a new Member of Congress, I
hardly expected to have to take this extraordinary step, but I do it
with the grave seriousness with which it is intended.
Last May I stood on this floor and I welcomed my first new
grandchild, and I said at that time that for many of us the issues that
we deal with today, we need to think about how they affect our children
and our grandchildren. I would submit to my colleagues today that that
is what I am thinking about, because what we are doing today is
securing for them our American way of life.
Our American way of life reflects that fragile balance between our
individual freedom and the security of our Nation, because that is the
cornerstone of our democracy and to which our children are born. And to
our foes: You have underestimated our will to assure that that justice
and that freedom flourishes throughout our land.
{time} 2215
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from
Georgia (Mr. Linder).
Mr. LINDER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to
me.
Mr. Speaker, not one Member of this body ran for election to go to
war. We seek peace. But in the last century, America has spent the
lives of our young men and women in major conflicts on five occasions
on other shores to restore peace, and now war comes to us.
We did not invite this, but we will not shirk from it. A band of
thugs has visited upon this Nation and upon innocent American citizens
death and destruction, the likes of which the world has never seen. It
falls upon us to ensure that not only can it not succeed on our soil,
but that it should not be tolerated in any corner of the globe.
This resolution gives to our President the tools to begin a long and
arduous campaign to end this terrorism. It will not end with the
punishment of one man or group or even one nation sympathetic to their
cause. It will end with a victory so brutal and decisive that no one or
group, no matter how much they hate freedom, will dare to risk
repeating the terror they have put the world through for the last 30
years. No nation state, no matter how much they hate America as the
world's most conspicuous example of freedom, will find it in their
nation's interest to attempt to surreptitiously support them.
This will not be quick or easy, but this is a united Congress, this
is a dedicated President, the American people are fully committed to
our goal, and we will succeed.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to our
distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Clement).
Mr. CLEMENT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to
me.
Mr. Speaker, we were all shocked, horrified, disgusted, and sorrowed
at the tragic events that transpired September 11, 2001, resulting in a
large loss of life. My thoughts and prayers are with the families.
There is no doubt, all of our own lives hold more value to
[[Page H5669]]
us than before, and we have been forever changed as individuals and as
a nation by experiencing such a devastating loss.
In the days ahead, we must take a multifaceted approach in order to
destroy terrorism and terrorists around the world.
Make no mistake, the Congress fully supports our President and will
hold those responsible who did those atrocious actions. We will do
whatever is necessary to promote and protect our way of life and to
protect our families. America remains a strong democracy, and the
resilience of our people will prevail.
Just a few weeks ago, I was in New York City; and I was toured around
by the Port Authority of New York. We were over there with the
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mica) with the Subcommittee on Aviation,
and they showed us New York.
Some of those people who took me around are not with us anymore. I
assure Members, we will remember them, we will remember their memories,
and we will do everything we can to bring about justice for all.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to our valued
colleague, the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Velazquez).
Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support this resolution on
behalf of my constituents and all New York. Those who wear the uniforms
of firefighters, paramedics, nurses, and doctors are our soldiers. We
will not let their courage, big heart, and hard work to rebuild our
city amid the rubble be forgotten.
We are facing a different kind of war requiring a different kind of
response. We will need more vigilance at home and more cooperation
abroad. Flexibility and creativity are required to prevent further
assaults. We must be smarter and faster than our foe.
We support this action because our cause is just. There is no
conceivable justification for shedding the blood of innocents. We do
not seek vengeance, for Americans are not a vengeful people. Americans
cherish justice, and that is what we seek here.
This resolution would allow us to pursue, prosecute, and punish these
criminals. We do this because civilized nations prove again and again
that terrorists have no legitimacy among them.
With the sustained and inalterable will demonstrated here tonight,
and the cooperation of peace-loving people around the world, we will
prevail. I strongly support this resolution.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to our
colleague, the gentleman from New Jersey, (Mr. Holt).
(Mr. HOLT asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me.
Mr. Speaker, today, even as we bind the wounds as thousands of brave
Americans still work to free those who are trapped, to care for those
who are injured, to recover those who are lost, Congress, on behalf of
our good and brave people, must act.
Mr. Speaker, this is the time for our Nation to lead the world in the
fight against terror, to strike a blow for future generations for all
people against those who would try to achieve their goals through
violence, terror, and bloodshed. While these cowardly acts have shaken
buildings, they cannot shake the strong foundations of our nation's,
our peoples' spirit, our great democracy.
Today we show that we are Americans united, united for our foes to
see and for our friends to see. Today we show the world that the manner
in which we respond illustrates what makes America great and shows
America to be good.
I join with all of my colleagues in Congress in expressing our
Nation's sorrow and outrage against this evil event; even more, our
firm resolve to root out terrorism. It will require a long, hard
effort, and a full measure of wisdom and courage. Those cowards failed.
Our freedom is not our vulnerability, it is our greatest strength.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to our
distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Stupak).
Mr. STUPAK. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. I
suspect most Members will support it. As we have heard from voices
throughout the land, people are looking for swift, revengeful action
from our Armed Forces.
In my own district, my own constituents are mourning the death of
Army Major Kip Taylor, who died in Tuesday's attack on the Pentagon. I
am sure we all want swift retribution, but I am reminded of the old
saying that revenge is a dish best served cold.
This resolution authorizes the President to strike, and to strike
hard. But let us make sure we identify our targets carefully. Today as
we gathered at the National Cathedral on this day of prayer and
remembrance, we sang the Battle Hymn of the Republic.
We sang those words that we hope will send a chill through our
enemies: ``He hath loosed the faithful lightning of his terrible swift
sword.''
Mr. Speaker, the sword we loosen tonight is indeed terrible. May its
aim be swift and true in bringing us justice and peace.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he might consume to
our distinguished Democratic whip, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr.
Bonior).
Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, the gentleman from
California (Mr. Lantos), for managing the time today on this most
important resolution and for his contributions, as well as the
distinguished gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde).
Mr. Speaker, together we mourn our Nation's terrible, terrible losses
and our hearts ache; and we know that the days ahead will not be very
easy. But in these past difficult days, America has once again shown
the world and perhaps even ourselves, Mr. Speaker, just who we are, a
land of courage and generosity and extraordinary quiet heroes; a people
of many colors, faiths, backgrounds; a people who stand united, not
just in defense of our Nation but of our most cherished ideals,
freedom, tolerance, diversity, and democracy.
When the world watched our national prayer service earlier today they
heard the healing words of many faiths. A Muslim imam, a Jewish rabbi,
and Christian clergy.
These Americans, like the rest of the world, all worship God in their
own way. But the common faith they share, what we have witnessed in the
torrent of goodness this week as neighbors help neighbors and strangers
help strangers, is that hate can never conquer our national spirit.
We must prepare ourselves for the uncertain months and perhaps years
ahead. Every one of us will be asked to give more, to do more, to help
pull the plow of freedom forward.
With this resolution, we commit ourselves to that endeavor, to bring
those who attacked us on September 11 to justice and to build a safer
world. We draw strength from our unity of purpose in the unwavering
support of friends and allies around the world.
Today, we join together not as Democrats nor Republicans, but Mr.
Speaker, as proud Americans prepared to defend freedom as our forebears
did before us.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Before yielding back the balance of our time, may I just say that I
arrived on these shores in August of 1947, and in all those years I
have never been more proud to be an American than this week. The unity,
the goodness, the commitment, the decency of our people has been so
obvious and clear and so powerful and moving. This country will stand
united as we destroy international terrorism, however long it takes.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of our time.
Mr. HYDE. Mr. Speaker, I yield the balance of our time to the
distinguished majority leader, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey).
Mr. ARMEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the gentleman from
Illinois (Mr. Hyde) for yielding me this time, and I thank both him and
the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) for your leadership on the
floor during this debate.
I would like to thank, Mr. Speaker, all my colleagues, all these
Members of this House of Representatives. Today I have had a rare
opportunity. I had an opportunity to listen to most of the speeches,
and it was a good debate about a serious subject. Mr. Speaker, this is
a serious moment for each and
[[Page H5670]]
every one of us, and you can see it weighing in our hearts.
Every now and then, Mr. Speaker, we are called upon to understand and
reach deep into our hearts and minds to understand who we are as a
Nation. I have seen it before my eyes in all the scenes we have seen
described here tonight and the horror of the attack and the splendor of
our heroic response. Even in the most brief circumstances, with our
hearts broken, we reached out to help others across this land.
I think, Mr. Speaker, there is one phrase from our sacred documents
that tells us who we are, why are we here, why did we come to this land
from all other this world, with all our different creeds,
denominations, Nations of origin, nationalities.
We came here in search of one thing. We came here to secure the
blessings of liberty for ourselves and our posterity. That is what we
wanted. We have had to struggle too many times, Mr. Speaker, in the
history of this great world as we have tried to play out that wonderful
drama as a marvelous experiment in the history of the world. We have
had to struggle against our own imperfections and there has been hurt;
and we tried to overcome that hurt.
On so many other occasions we have been called upon to struggle for
the freedom that we love so much against the enemies of freedom. Even
in the beginning of this great Nation, with the minutemen, we took to
our muskets to win our freedom. And another time we fought with one
another, and just about lost the greatness of this Nation and we
brought it back together.
But for the most part, Mr. Speaker, we have had to spend our young
men and women in the defense of freedom for other people, and I always
admired us so much for that.
{time} 2230
What Nation ever in the history of the world has so much loved
freedom that they spent their own peace to defend the freedom of people
other than themselves? That is to be known, that is to be respected,
that is to be cherished, if only by ourselves.
And now we are challenged again. Why do they challenge us? What do
they seek to achieve? Are they wanting to change our commitment to
freedom across the globe? Do they think we are a bother to them as they
try to suppress other people and deny them their rights? A great Nation
does not change the course of its policies towards other nations and
other people because of the cruel, inhumane acts of terrorism by
barbaric people who do not understand respect. We will not change who
we are and what we stand for in this world and who we have been and
what we have stood for in this world because of this.
I am told that in some instances, with some of these people, they
hate our religion. We only ask that we all gather together and give
respect for one another in our religious beliefs. We try to do that for
others, and I believe as a Nation we do it well. Not perfect, but well.
And we work so hard at doing that for others we require that it be the
same for us.
Tonight, we have gathered here to discuss something, and I have heard
so many of my colleagues in this body say it, it is something we do not
want to do, to join again in authorization with our President, the
commander in chief of the United States of America, to commit our young
men and women in uniform to the field of danger in the defense of
freedom. A simple thing, done over and over and over again.
We have been reminded by others, some of us, of the costs we might
expect these young men and women to pay, the costs that have been paid
by the heroes we have talked about in this debate. This will not come
cheap. There will be mamas and daddies with broken hearts with the loss
of the most precious gift the good Lord has ever given them: their
children.
But when mothers and fathers in this great land lend their children
to the cause of freedom, they do just that. We do not commit our
children for frivolous reasons to fields of danger. This is not about
revenge. It is not in our heart. We are a good Nation. We are a kind
Nation. We will forgive our enemies in victory; and we struggle to
forgive ourselves for our imperfections, but we do not commit our
children to acts of vengeance.
We do not cheapen the heroism of our great American heroes with the
quest of territory or the thought of dominance of other people. We will
spend our heroes only for freedom, decency and respect; for the right
to live an ordinary mundane everyday life, to go to work and be left
alone, to do our bit and share with others, to hold our children and
put them to bed at night with a very simple little kiss on the cheek
and a very soft little assurance: sleep safely, my darling, for you are
in America and you are free and you are safe and our heroes have made
it so for you.
Mr. Speaker, let us vote for this resolution. Let us take this harsh
task. Let us ask our young men and women once more in America to go out
and be the sensational heroes at risk that they never wanted to be and,
bless our hearts, that we never wanted them to have to be. Let us get
this done. Let us remove this blight on the world. And, Mr. Speaker,
let us have the blessings of liberty for ourselves, but oh so much more
importantly, for our posterity.
(Mr. NADLER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, the World Trade Center is in my district,
and I just this moment returned from traveling in the district with the
President, walking through the ruins of the World Trade Center, where
there are thousands of bodies buried.
I have spent much of my career speaking out against the use of
military force when I believed it was unwarranted. In many ways, my
political awakening began with my active opposition to the war in
Vietnam. But, Mr. Speaker, those of my colleagues who are rightly
skeptical of the use of force, and who recognize how very reluctant we
must be when sending our young men and women into harm's way, must
understand the threat and the stakes if we fail to act.
Many have said that the events of Tuesday changed the world forever.
The world has not changed. The people who carried out this murderous
attack on our Nation, the organizations which recruited, trained, and
supplied them, the governments which gave them shelter and support are
still there. We now know without any doubt what the price of inaction,
of appeasement, of willful blindness will be.
The world has not changed, but I believe the American people have.
Our Nation is now ready to recognize that we have been in a war for
many years. Our people now recognize that if we do not defend ourselves
in that war from those for whom our lives, our children, and our way of
life are a daily affront, we will not survive as a Nation. We must now
exercise the right under the United Nations Charter to collective self-
defense.
I wish we had a choice, but the charred rubble and the thousands of
dead Americans lying just blocks from my office in Manhattan, and the
hundreds more a stone's throw from this very building demonstrate that
we have no choice. We must pass this resolution. We must wage the war
that has been thrust upon it. We must do it resolutely, and we must be
victorious and rid the world of this scourge of terrorism.
Mr. Speaker, I have just returned from my congressional district and
walked with the President through the ruins of the World Trade Center.
Somewhere in those charred and twisted ruins lie the bodies of
relatives, friends, children, colleagues, neighbors, firefighters,
police officers, working people, and innocent tourists.
I have spent much of my career speaking out against the use of
military force when I believed it was unwarranted. In fact, in many
ways my political awakening began with my active opposition to the war
in Vietnam. But, Mr. Speaker, those of my colleagues who are rightly
skeptical of the use of military force, and who recognize how every
careful we must be when we consider sending our young men and women
into harm's way, must look carefully at this threat and understand the
stakes if we fail to act.
Many have said that the events of September 11, 2001, changed the
world forever.
But if our lives were changed forever, the world was not. The people
who carried out this murderous attack on our Nation, the organizations
which recruited, trained, and supplied them, the governments which gave
them shelter and support, the fanatical leaders who have whipped up
hatred so great that young people were willing to fly planes filled
with innocent civilians into crowded office buildings--all of these
despicable murders and demagogues have been at work for years. The only
[[Page H5671]]
thing that has changed is that we have now joined the family of nations
which has far too long paid a terrible price because we have failed to
act.
We now know without any doubt what the price of inaction, of
appeasement, of willful blindness, will be. When we allow nations which
offer shelter and pay tribute to these murders to pretend that they are
our friends, we get the betrayal we ourselves have invited. Anyone who
witnessed the mobs in the Palestinian territories celebrating our
tragedy in the streets understands the attitude of our enemy in this
war; they shake your hand and then cheer your pain.
So the world has not changed, but I believe the American people have.
Our Nation is now ready to recognize that we have been in a war for
many years, and our people now recognize that if we do not defend
ourselves in that war from those for whom our lives, our children, and
our way of life are a daily affront, we will not survive as a nation.
The Constitution gives Congress the awesome power to declare war and
authorize the use of military force in the defense of the Nation. The
United Nations Charter gives member nations the right to ``collective
self-defense.'' Tonight we do just that. I wish we had a choice, but
the charred rubble and the thousands of dead just blocks from my office
in Manhattan, and the hundreds more a stones throw this very building,
demonstrate that we do not.
(Mr. ENGEL asked and was given permission to address the House for 1
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I, too, have just come back from New York
with the President, and I must say that I still have the mud all over
me. Being a New Yorker, born and bred, I was not prepared for what I
saw at ground zero.
Ten years ago, Mr. Speaker, I stood in the well and was one of the
Democrats who crossed party lines to support the first President Bush
in the Persian Gulf War to do what he needed to do as our commander in
chief, and I now do the same 10 years later with President Bush.
This is a very difficult time for all Americans. We need to band
together to fight this scourge of terrorism, and I think we know it now
more than ever before. I have never been more proud to be an American.
I have never been more proud to be a New Yorker, to see the firemen,
the policemen, the iron workers, and everyone else working together to
try to find more survivors, to try to do whatever they can to help each
other.
This is going to be a long prolonged fight. As our President said, it
is a war, a war on terrorism, but a war that we will win. I am very,
very proud; proud of this body and proud to be an American. God bless
America.
(Mr. FERGUSON asked and was given permission to address the House for
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. FERGUSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
resolution. I, too, came back from ground zero in New York, the site of
so much wreckage and destruction. And for those who say that this was
done by cowardly, faceless villains, yes, they were cowardly; but the
face that we see is the face of evil and hatred in our world today.
We contrasted that evil with the hope and the determination and the
courage of the firefighters and police officers and rescue squad
personnel working with the glimmer of hope of finding additional
survivors. For these individuals who have worked in the toughest of
circumstances for 3 days, it was incredible to see their faces light up
with words of encouragement from our President.
There was so much noise and machinery. There was a firefighter in the
back who yelled, ``Mr. President, we can't hear you.'' And the
President responded with, ``But I can hear you, and all of America can
hear you. And for those who took down these buildings, they are going
to hear from us.''
Tonight's resolution represents our opportunity to make sure that
they do hear from us. Tonight, we have an opportunity to stop this
evil. We do not seek revenge; we seek justice. We know that this is not
going to be a short-term project. We need to bear down and have
perseverance for the long haul. We will root out those who were
responsible for that massacre, and America will stare down the face of
evil and hatred.
To those who have endured so much suffering, we will not let you
down.
Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I am voting for this resolution
with a heavy heart, but without hesitation.
Like the hearts of all Americans, my heart is heavy with grief for
all those killed and injured in this week's despicable attacks. It is
weighted with sympathy for all their families and friends, and with
concern for what may lie ahead for our country and for other people
around the world.
But, however heavy our hearts, we in the Congress and throughout
America know we must not lose heart.
We know we must not hesitate to fulfill our responsibilities to our
fellow citizens and to our country.
We know that if we do, we will be giving way to terror and giving
victory to those who seek to terrorize America.
And all Americans--Christians, Jews, Muslims, and all others, too--
know that we cannot let these criminal deeds go unanswered.
This resolution is a key part of the answer. It says the President
can use force in a ``necessary and appropriate'' response directed at
those who ``planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist
attacks on September 11, 2001,'' as well as those who harbored the
perpetrators, so they will not commit new offenses. It is broad, but it
is not unlimited. It covers the culpable but it is not aimed at anyone
else.
In other words, in voting for this resolution, I am voting not for
vengeance but for justice.
I think it is the duty of all civilized people to insist on meting
out justice to those who are guilty, including those who have aided and
abetted the perpetrators--and we must not hesitate to carry out that
duty.
But we have another duty as well--a duty to ourselves and to the
things we hold most dear.
To paraphrase Churchill, this week may prove to be only the end of
the beginning of events that will challenge us all. Those events likely
will test our resolve in persisting through a long and unsettling
struggle. And they definitely will test our dedication to our own
principles--the very principles that have made America what it is and
so have made us hated by those who hate those principles.
We must not waiver in defending those principles. We must not weaken
in our determination to maintain our Constitution and democracy. And we
must not surrender or reduce the basic freedoms and the rights of all
Americans--because, if we do any of those things we will have lost the
struggle, whatever the results of the use of force authorized by this
resolution.
Mr. LEACH. Mr. Speaker, American governance today is confronted with
an unprecedented challenge. A concerted terrorist attack has been
perpetrated against our institutions, people, and way of life. As
legislators we are obligated to look to our constitutional heritage to
craft an appropriate response. What is clear is the imperative to act.
What is less clear is the methodology to pursue.
Terrorism is neither easily understood nor combatted. The assaults on
the World Trade Center and the Pentagon represent perhaps more a
conspiracy of hatred than a traditionally understood act of war. Yet
the rationale for an international police action led by U.S. Armed
Forces must be rooted in traditional just war doctrine.
There is in the Western tradition a hallowed just war doctrine
developed by ecclesiastics and jurists, followed by statesmen,
instinctively accepted by the peoples of many countries in tradition
and right. Briefly, it holds that for war to be considered just, it
must be animated by a just cause and informed by righteous intention,
that it be undertaken by a lawful political authority and only as a
last resort, and that rectifying actions be proportionate to the wrongs
committed.
With this resolution Congress is obligated to lay forth an intent to
hold accountable to the bar of justice perpetrators of a crime against
civilized values. We do this, however, with no intent of territorial
aggression nor desire to precipitate breaches between the Moslem and
Judeo-Christian worlds. Indeed, we act our of a desire to emphasize
what unites rather than divide the three great monotheistic religions.
All moral communities are structured by religious values. Thus our
revolution against British authority was premised upon ``self-evident''
individual rights and legitimized by an ``appeal to heaven,'' a higher
law of conscience which precedes the more mundane civil laws of
society. In establishing our constitutional form of government the
Founders brought into being not a secular system, but a desectarianized
one premised on the dual conviction that no political leader or
institution speaks for God, and at the same time, that under God, truth
and right are not matters ultimately decided by majority vote.
The decision not to establish a state church, however, was never
intended to precipitate a divorce of religious values from politics.
Citizens were expected to derive their values
[[Page H5672]]
from religion, but to practice their faith by example rather than
coercion; to be moral without moralizing. Likewise, governance was
intended to be rooted in law and due process and the resolution we are
now debating is intended to underscore the role of our legislators in
advancing a foreign policy decision.
Here, it demands stressing that for a community founded as ``one
nation, under God,'' a critical basis for making judgments of the
nature thrust today before Congress is the Ten Commandments, the
essence of the ethical teachings of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. As
the scholar Huston Smith puts it: ``It is through the Ten Commandments
that Hebraic morality has made its greatest impact upon the world.
Taken over by Christianity and Islam, the Ten Commandments constitute
the moral foundation of half the world's population.''
As Smith and others have pointed out, the ethical precepts contained
in the Ten Commandments--whether as worded in Exodus 20: 1-17 or
Deuteronomy 5: 6-21 of the Hebrew Bible, as summarized by Jesus of
Nazareth in ``two great commandments,'' Matthew 22: 37-39 in the New
Testament, or as in the injunctions and prohibitions in Surah 17: 22-39
of the Koran--represent the minimum standards of conduct if life in
community is to be an enduring possibility.
The Ten Commandments are not the exclusive possession of a single
religious tradition nor the expression of a particular moral code.
Rather the importance of the Ten Commandments lies not in their
uniqueness but in their universality. They are not only the final word
in any area, they are the first word. This is why, over three thousand
years after their formulation, they remain the moral cornerstone of
half the world.
The Ten Commandants are relevant to discussion of this resolution
because just as the Judeo-Christian tradition emphasizes the civilized
belief that ``Thou shalt not kill,'' the Koran states: ``do not kill
any one whom Allah has forbidden . . .''
The distinction that matters is not nuanced differences between the
Old and New Testaments and the Koran, but between committed individuals
of faith and fanatics. The former are concerned principally with
improving their own lives; the latter with imposing their beliefs on
others. Yet it is impressive how closely St. Paul's admonition about
modesty of judgement--that we all see through a glass darkly--parallels
Mohamed's directive ``follow not that of which you have not the
knowledge . . . do not go about in the land exultingly, for you cannot
cut through the earth nor reach the mountains in height.''
These parallels are important in this discussion because as we
contemplate the use of force, we the representatives of the American
people have an obligation to emphasize the commonality of our values.
We respect Islam and Islamic nations. The only brief we hold is against
parties that manipulate hatred and employ tactics of terror.
Here, to return to just war doctrine, a central tenet is
proportionately. Care must be taken in any military action to limit to
the maximum extent possible collateral damage and seek instead
individual accountability. We must in the American tradition pay a
decent respect to the opinions of mankind. Otherwise, we will not only
create more terrorists than we root out and cause a world currently
sympathetic to our dilemma to turn against us, however righteous our
cause. Fanaticism, in other words, should be matched by a commitment to
right or wrong, not counter-fanaticism. The fundamental goal of the
policy we sanction this evening must be prevention, not revenge.
Finally, a note about historical parallels. The Gulf of Tonkin
resolution is not proper precedent. Tonkin, after all, involved an
unconfirmed rifle attack from a wooden boat against a U.S. naval vessel
in a combat zone off the shores of Vietnam. No one was killed or
injured; no damage was inflicted. In this case, an unprovoked, cowardly
attack was launched against American citizens and military personnel on
American territory. The Congress, in conformity with the War Powers
Resolution which resulted from the lack of constitutional clarity that
engulfed our involvement in Vietnam, has no choice except to authorize
executive discretion. What this debate must frame, however, is both the
discretion that is appropriately delegated to the President or
underscored under the Constitution and the limits of nature of
judgement that must be applied to the circumstance. In this regard,
this Member smply wishes to place in the Record a concern for the need
for international cooperation and proportionality of response.
Fundamentally, at this stage, the crimes that have been committed are
of a few against two symbolic bastions of civilization. The goal should
be individual accountability of parties that plan and participate in
terrorism or harbor terrorist activity. Prayerfully, a war on terrorism
need not precipitate a war between cultures or states.
Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. It
authorizes the President to use all necessary and appropriate force
against those who attacked our country on September 11, or those who
aided or harbored them. The death and destruction that rained down from
the skies on Tuesday has horrified and outraged the entire nation. We
can never replace the innocent lives that were lost, but we honor their
grievous loss when we act to prevent such a heinous crime from
happening again.
The enemy that did this must be identified and punished. Their
network of support must be uprooted. In the difficult effort ahead, we
must be resolute, determined and united in purpose. The resolution
before the House tonight reinforces and supports the powers granted to
the President in the Constitution as Commander in Chief and those
granted him under the War Powers Act. More than that, it underscores
the determination of Congress to stand with the President, the men and
women of our nation's armed forces, and all Americans in the great task
before us.
As a freedom loving people, we did not seek this fight. But as nation
that loves freedom, we shall not shun it. Let us stand together and
pass this resolution.
Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart, one that is
filled with sorrow for the families and loved ones who were killed and
injured in New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Only the most foolish
or the most callous would not understand the grief that has gripped the
American people and millions across the world.
This unspeakable attack on the United States has forced me to rely on
my moral compass, my conscience, and my God for direction.
September 11 changed the world. Our deepest fears now haunt us. Yet I
am convinced that military action will not prevent further acts of
international terrorism against the United States.
I know that this use-of-force resolution will pass although we all
know that the President can wage a war even without this resolution.
However difficult this vote may be, some of us must urge the use of
restraint. There must be some of us who say, let's step back for a
moment and think through the implications of our actions today--let us
more fully understand its consequences.
We are not dealing with a conventional war. We cannot respond in a
conventional manner. I do not want to see this spiral out of control.
This crisis involves issues of national security, foreign policy,
public safety, intelligence gathering, economics, and murder. Our
response must be equally multi-faceted.
We must not rush to judgment. Far too many innocent people have
already died. Our country is in mourning. If we rush to launch a
counter-attack, we run too great a risk that women, children, and other
non-combatants will be caught in the crossfire.
Nor can we let our justified anger over these outrageous acts by
vicious murderers inflame prejudice against all Arab Americans,
Muslims, Southeast Asians, or any other people because of their race,
religion, or ethnicity.
Finally, we must be careful not to embark on an open-ended war with
neither an exit strategy nor a focused target. We cannot repeat past
mistakes.
In 1964, Congress gave President Lyndon Johnson the power to ``take
all necessary measures'' to repel attacks and prevent further
aggression. In so doing, this House abandoned its own constitutional
responsibilities and launched our country into years of undeclared war
in Vietnam.
At that time, Senator Wayne Morse, one of two lonely votes against
the Tonkin Gulf Resolution, declared, ``I believe that history will
record that we have made a grave mistake in subverting and
circumventing the Constitution of the United States . . . . I believe
that within the next century, future generations will look with dismay
and great disappointment upon a Congress which is now about to make
such a historic mistake.''
Senator Morse was correct, and I fear we make the same mistake today.
And I fear the consequences.
I have agonized over this vote. But I came to grips with it in the
very painful yet beautiful memorial service today at the National
Cathedral. As a member of the clergy so eloquently said, ``As we act,
let us not become the evil that we deplore.''
Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight in strong support of this
resolution. What we are doing tonight is authorizing the use of our
Armed Forces for war. It is a war we did not want, and it is a war we
did not start. But the primary responsibility of any government must be
the protection of its citizens, and so Tuesday's attacks on the
citizens of the United States have left us with no choice. The
perpetrators of these heinous crimes must be found, and then they must
suffer the consequences of their deeds.
I take this vote tonight knowing there will be challenges ahead.
There will be danger. And there will be sacrifice. But this is a war we
must win. For us as Americans, and for the free world.
Terrorists use fear as a weapon. But we will not surrender to fear.
Because they are not
[[Page H5673]]
just facing the best-trained and best-equipped military the world has
ever known; they are facing the fierce determination and the quiet
anger of the American people. The attacks on Tuesday were designed to
bring chaos to the United States, but it has done just the opposite. We
stand together as one nation. We understand there will be challenges
ahead. And we know what must be done. And that is why we are here
tonight and authorizing the President to use all necessary force to
destroy these terrorist organizations. September 11th is a day we will
always remember, and I believe it is a day the enemies of freedom will
live to regret.
Mr. WU. Mr. Speaker, as brave Americans continue working to rescue
and treat those trapped under the remains of the World Trade Center and
the damaged Pentagon, my heart and prayers continue to be with those
who have lost loved ones and those with loved ones still to be found.
Since Tuesday, I have seen Americans in our finest hour. We have
experienced the deepest of loss, sadness, despair, and anger. But
Americans have joined together to help each other, and I am proud.
We Americans demand that individuals, organizations, or countries
responsible for this monstrous act be brought to justice. Our actions
must be deliberate, decisive, and effective.
We will not deliberately attack innocent civilians and become like
our attackers.
Article I, section 8 of the our Constitution grants to Congress the
authority ``To declare War.''
This is one of the most profound of powers. The Founders recognized
that the power to send our sons and daughters to war is the most
important decision a nation can make. They invested this power in
Congress, the institution closest to the people.
I believe this solemn congressional responsibility is critical to
protecting the delicate balance of power between the legislative and
executive branches. This balance of power was carefully crafted and has
allowed the United States to remain one of the most stable and enduring
democracies in the world.
I would have strong reservations about a resolution authorizing the
use of force in an open ended manner reaching far beyond responding to
this specific terrorist attack on America. This is not that resolution.
This resolution restates the authority I believe Congress already
granted to the President under Section 2(c)(3) of the War Powers
Resolution. My reading is that nothing in this resolution supercedes
congressional authority under the Constitution or War Powers Resolution
and the President would continue to be bound by the reporting and
consultation requirements. Under this resolution, Congress reserves the
right to review the President's plans and actions.
The purpose of our restatement, of this use of force resolution, is
to demonstrate that America stands united. I pray that President Bush
will use the awesome powers of the United States with wisdom.
Mr. HILLEARY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of our Commander-
in-Chief, our Armed Forces, and the important action this body takes
today. This resolution means America will go into our war on terrorism
with a solid front.
We're not retaliating because we're angry, although we are. We're not
doing this out of revenge, although it is. This is not simply about
justice, although we are entitled to justice. Rather, we are
retaliating to save our freedom and way of life. These who were
violently attacked on September 22th would be attacked again, maybe
with nuclear, biological, or chemical weapons next time, if we were to
allow the perpetrators to go unpunished, or even lightly punished. But
we won't. America is a peaceful nation, but when our freedom and
security are challenged as they are now, we will do whatever it takes
to protect our way of life.
I do not take this decision lightly. This war is going to be an
extensive and costly one. This vote will result in the likely loss of
life for a good number of American servicemen, and the certain upheaval
of many American families. Our enemies don't think America has the
stomach for an ugly sustained fight like this one. Our enemies are
wrong.
Ten years ago, I was on the receiving end of a resolution like this
one, just another young Air Force officer, waiting for the word. I know
it was an agonizing decision for many members of this body, but it was
the right one for America and for the world. I believe this one is,
too. We need to remember this when the going gets tough. Right is
right, and must be defended.
It says in the seventh Psalm that, ``He who digs a hole and scoops it
out falls into the pit he has made. The trouble he causes recoils on
himself; his violence comes down on his own head.'' In the near future,
the violence of America's enemies will come down on their own heads. We
will find these barbarians, we will hunt down those who harbor them,
and we will make an example of them. We did not start this. But we will
finish it.
God bless the victims and their families, God bless our brave
soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines. And God bless America.
Mrs. CLAYTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Joint War Powers
Resolution, but not without reservation. Clearly, the terrorist attacks
on September 11th caused unprecedented death, destruction and despair
in our nation. The attacks struck a blow not only to our citizens and
buildings, but also against our values, our freedoms, our way of life.
They touched all of us; and we must seek justice, honor our fellow
citizens, and prevent further terrorist acts.
Today, we join with the President to undertake such acts as are
necessary to prevent any future acts of terrorism against our citizens.
Today, and for many days ahead, we hurt, we mourn, and we honor the
memory of those whose lives were taken by the terrorist attacks, and
those whose lives were lost in courageous rescue efforts. Many of our
citizens are angry, indeed, enraged and want to strike back, and we
must strike back.
We do not understand and may never understand why anyone would commit
such unspeakable, horrific deeds. The terrorists sought to instill in
us fear and insecurity. To this, we must not submit; we must strike
back. We must take the necessary actions to safeguard our lives and
American interests, but we must not relinquish our cherished freedoms
and values.
In America, we cherish our values, our humanity, our love of justice.
Therefore, as we pursue the terrorists, and those who aided or harbored
them, we must not become terrorists. We must not become filled with the
evil force which we abhor in the terrorists. We must strike back, but
must do so consistently with the values that we hold dear. The
President should act only on the basis of convincing evidence of the
identity of the terrorists, and employ that force which is necessary to
deter and prevent future acts of terrorism against our citizens. The
authorization we give the President today is not unlimited. Congress
will monitor progress of our military actions and work with the
President to ensure that our actions under this resolution are
necessary and appropriate, consistent with our values, in conjunction
with our friends and allies, and in accordance with international laws.
We are a strong and resilient nation. We will recover and rebuild our
broken lives, our buildings and our way of life. Let us pray that God's
grace and wisdom will guide us through the difficult days ahead.
Mr. MASCARA. Mr. Speaker, we gather here this evening to declare
America's intention to exercise her right of self-defense and her
obligation to protect her citizens. I stand shoulder to shoulder with
my colleagues to announce, through this joint resolution, that acts of
terrorism will not be tolerated. At present, these cowards may be
nameless, well-trained, well-financed, and filled with hate towards
America, but we will soon know who they are and they will rue the day
they chose to attack American freedom.
I take no solace or comfort in voting for this resolution, but I do
it proudly. Let there be no doubt: while we did not seek this fight, we
are more than ready to finish it. America burns with a seething,
unyielding, smoldering anger that will not be extinguished until it has
punished this ruthless foe.
Never again should Americans wake up to see their precious landmarks
hit by airplanes. Never again should Americans wake up to see the
symbols of their military strength and superiority attacked by cowards.
Never again should Americans have to wonder if the symbols of their
cherished democracy are safe. In short, never again.
I support this resolution with a firm resolve. We will win this
campaign against terrorism. May God bless the United States of America.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to
express my strongest support possible for H.J. Res 64, a resolution
authorizing the use of United States Armed Forces against those
responsible for the recent attacks against our country. I want to thank
the leadership of both parties for acting as quickly as they did to
bring this legislation forth.
Mr. Speaker, only a few hours ago, I stood at Ground Zero, in lower
Manhattan, with President Bush and many of my colleagues and viewed
first hand the devastating destruction that occurred in New York City
on Tuesday morning, September 11, 2001. We saw the mountains of rubble
that once was the World Trade Center. We saw the neighboring buildings
that surround this area that are also damaged. We talked to city and
state officials and learned about the tremendous economic impact this
event will have. But most importantly, what we did not see was the
thousands of people, mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, brothers,
sisters, friends all, who were indiscriminately killed by cowards. This
attack on our innocent citizens, this attack on our nation's financial
center and on the heart of our national defense, the Pentagon, and the
hundreds of people who died there, must not go
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unpunished. I know I stand united with my colleagues tonight, shoulder
to shoulder, in supporting the President of the United States to give
him the authority and tools necessary to seek justice to this most
horrific act of violence.
This nation has never wanted war. We are a peaceful nation. And, I do
not take these actions that we are authorizing tonight lightly, but I
believe the American people understand that there are those times when
the actions by others must be answered. This is one of those times. We
must respond, in kind and with a united voice, to the actions of these
ruthless forces. I know the American people are willing to endure even
a protracted campaign, if necessary, in order to secure the future of
our country.
I urge my colleagues to vote unanimously in support of this
resolution. God bless the United States.
Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. speaker, on September 11th, America came
face to face with undisguised evil. We did not blink. What the enemies
of America perceive as weakness, we celebrate as strength--freedom,
tolerance, democratic governance. No enemy can ever take these things
from us, because they are ingrained in our institutions, our way of
life, and our very character as a people.
In times of trial, these principles give America the strength and
resolve to meet any challenge, no matter how great. We will rise to
this challenge as we have done countless times before. As we mourn our
dead, we prepare for war. Americans are people of goodwill. We do not
seek war, and waging war is something we do neither with relish nor
with joy. But wage war we must, with all the ferocity and all the
commitment of a Nation roused to righteous anger. Whether it takes
weeks, months, or years, we will prevail.
To those who have spilled the blood of American innocents, and those
who have harbored them, our message is a simple one: You can run, but
you can't hide. America will track you down, and for what you have
done, you will pay. You will pay. God bless this House, and God bless
America.
Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday, September 11, 2001, is a day that
none of us in this Chamber--none of us in this country--will forget. It
is a day when our nation experienced an attack unlike we have ever
seen. Thousands of lives in our nation were lost and many, many more
were forever changed because of the despicable and deliberate acts of
terrorists. As we observe this National Day of Prayer and Remembrance
for this terrible tragedy, our hearts are with all the victims and
their families, and our thoughts and prayers are with those working so
hard to remove the rubble and hopefully find additional survivors.
We can no longer think of these terrorist attacks as something that
we see on television that happen only in far away lands. The threat to
our national security is evident, and our response to the attacks at
the World Trade Center and the Pentagon is critical. It must be strong,
it must be carefully calculated, and it must be swift.
The time has come for the United States to make a full force effort
to eliminate the terrorist networks across the globe, and I urge my
colleagues to support this resolution authorizing the President to use
such necessary and appropriate force against those responsible for the
terrorist attacks on September 11 and anyone or any country who
assisted them.
This is no easy task, but our troops are ready, and our government
stands united, Democrats and Republicans alike, in our resolve to end
terrorism in the United States.
Yes, Tuesday was dark day for America. But, Mr. Speaker, it was not
near as dark as the days that lie ahead for the evil perpetrators who
masterminded these attacks. The American spirit is alive and well, and
our commitment to seek out and take action against those who would
commit such heinous and cowardly acts is unwavering. We will not allow
these terrorists to alter the kind of world that our children and
grandchildren grow up in.
Mr. STEARNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues in strong
support of this resolution. All American's have been reminded that
freedom comes at a price. The citizens of the United States have fought
to sustain one's right to remain free, engaging in major conflicts from
our birth during the Revolutionary War, to the War of 1812, the Mexican
War, Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I and II, Korea,
Vietnam, and finally the gulf war.
Each conflict cost precious lives, but those men and women gave their
lives so that future generations would continue to live under the
blanket of freedom. We all feel the tremendous loss of life--loved
ones, friends, colleagues--and our prayers are steadfast with the
victims, their families, and those brave souls who are risking their
lives at this very moment in search and rescue operations.
My colleagues, we are about to vote on a course of action that again
pits hope against terror--and--freedom against oppression. Our enemies
will never know freedom, because they are imprisoned by hate--and for
that--they have already lost.
As we stand united behind our President and with our fellow
Americans, I offer the following reflection: After the attack on Pearl
Harbor, Japanese Admiral Yamamoto lamented that his country's action
had ``awakened a sleeping giant.'' My colleagues, that giant has
awakened again.
For the Lord is my light and my salvation--whom shall I fear? The
Lord is the stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid? When evil
men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes
attack me, they will stumble and fall.
Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in the House and
Senate in support of H.J. Res. 64, to authorize the use of our Armed
Forces against those responsible for the recent terrorist attacks
against the United States. Passing this resolution and sanctioning the
use of our courageous armed forces is not something we do lightly,
hastily, or in pursuit of vengeance. Putting the men and women of our
military in harm's way is a grave decision that should only be resorted
to when no other course of action is appropriate.
This resolution is a deliberate, well-considered, and I believe
proper response to the deplorable acts of terror committed against our
country, our people, and indeed, the entire civilized world.
Passing this resolution demonstrates to our country and to all the
nations of the world our united resolve to punish those responsible for
these heinous acts, and more importantly, ensures that perpetrators of
terror are not allowed to continue their campaign of violence against
innocent persons both here and abroad.
Mr. Speaker, by passing this resolution we send this critical message
to our military: We stand behind you as you prepare to defend our
country and the ideals of freedom and democracy, for our citizens and
the world community.
Mr. OXLEY. Mr. Speaker, I have heard this plea from my constituents
in the fourth congressional district in these numbing days following
the unconscionable terrorist attack on the World Trade Center and
Pentagon: Find those who did this. Make them answer for their evil.
Defend the ideals that our predecessors fought for, to make this a
safer and more peaceful world for the generations to come.
I was in this House a decade ago when we debated a resolution to
support our President, George Bush, when he went to war against Saddam
Hussein. I hoped never to have to speak to a military challenge of that
magnitude again. But on September 11, America was attacked at home by
an enemy that hides in shadows and kills without conscience.
By authorizing the use of all necessary and appropriate force against
those responsible for terrorist attacks, this Congress shows that it
and the American people stands behind our President, George W. Bush,
and civilized society. While it is not a technical declaration of war,
for all practical purposes the United States is at war with those who
want to harm our people, disrupt our economy, shatter our security, and
destroy our democratic values. All nations in the world who profess the
values of civilization should be with America on this defining mission.
We will win before the causes of liberty and justice are more
powerful than the forces of evil and hatred. Americans have answered
this call before. This time, the enemy is not so much a single country
as a destructive concept called terrorism. But we will prevail because
this new challenge has once again shown that we are the United States.
We know what we are fighting for: the triumph of liberty, freedom, and
peace over fanaticism and violence. Our response is just, and our cause
will prevail.
Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, tonight, I vote to support the use of
America's military force against the terrorist organizations that
plotted to attack our peaceful Nation. This will likely be the most
important vote I take as a Member of Congress. With this vote, I put my
trust in our President, the men and women of our Armed Forces, and my
fellow Americans. We will overcome this tremendous challenge with
honor, dignity, and justice.
Mr. JONES of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight with a heavy
heart.
The floor we stand on here is the centerpiece of American democracy.
It has been the site of weighty debates, presidential addresses, and
critical votes. I have witnessed and participated in many of these
since I was first elected to represent the people of North Carolina's
3rd District in 1994. As a servant of the people, these events are all
humbling.
However the vote we are poised to take today is one of my most
significant votes in my congressional career--and the most important
type of vote that Congress ever takes. Today we vote to authorize the
Commander-in-Chief to send our brave men and women in uniform into
harm's way.
[[Page H5675]]
This is not a vote to be taken lightly. We do so with righteous
cause--to respond to the despicable acts of war committed against the
American people and the very freedoms and ideals for which our Nation
stands. And we do so with the solemn understanding that some of the men
and women that we send to fight this new war may not return. They may
be from districts around the country--they may be from my own.
But the action we take tonight is absolutely necessary.
Our Nation was violated, our people slaughtered, our democracy
threatened. Justice must be delivered--the victims of this tragedy
deserve it and the American people demand it.
This resolution will demonstrate to the world--and most importantly
those who committed these horrendous crimes--that the United States
will respond. And when she does, it will be with the full weight and
support of the President, this Congress, and the American people.
Let me be clear--this is not just a vote about the use of force or
even terrorism. This is a vote to protect the freedoms of the people of
the United States of America. I urge my colleagues to join me in that
effort by supporting this important resolution.
God bless our President, God bless the men and women in uniform who
will carry out this conflict, and God bless our great Nation.
Mr. BORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.J. Res. 64 to
authorize the President to use whatever means necessary to respond to
the heinous, barbarous terrorist acts of September 11. I am proud to
stand here in unity with my Democratic and Republican colleagues in
support of our President, our Armed Forces, our law enforcement
personnel, and our entire great nation, as we seek justice for these
horrible atrocities.
On September 11, we were violently attacked in an act of war. It was
not a war of our choosing. Indeed, Americans are by their nature a good
people, and we seek to settle our differences through peaceful means.
But when we are violently attacked, we respond with tremendous resolve.
This is not a war of our choosing. But we must choose today to
forcefully respond to this cowardly act to ensure that it never happens
again.
Ten years ago, I was proud to stand in this chamber as we debated a
similar resolution to address the aggression of Saddam Hussein. We had
principled differences over the use of force, but when we finished our
debate and passed the resolution, we all stood united behind our
President. Because we are a strong, healthy democracy, we know when to
put our differences aside for the greater good of peace, prosperity and
security.
Today we are confronted with an even greater challenge to the future
of our democracy. But I believe our courage, resolve and unity today
has never been stronger. Only a week ago, we were passionately debating
the budget, taxes and Social Security. Those issues, important as they
are, now pale in comparison to the challenge before us. Today we cast
aside our labels of Democrat and Republican, and we stand as one
America.
The perpetrators of these heinous acts will be found, their terrorist
networks will be eradicated, and justice will be served. This will not
happen overnight. Every American should be prepared for a long
campaign. But we will succeed. When America's spirit is moved, it is
unbound by conventional limits. When America's freedom is threatened,
it responds decisively.
The terrorists who committed these atrocities will never understand
the power of American freedom, and they will always underestimate
American resolve. That is because they live in fear of a world that
embraces our ideals of freedom, democracy and equality. While
terrorists plot behind closed doors to destroy human lives,
compassionate and courageous Americans risk their lives to save lives--
as our firefighters and other rescuers heroically demonstrated in the
past few days.
The actions that we will authorize today will likely result in lives
lost--a reality not of our choosing but forced upon us by the events of
September 11. But the eradication of terrorist networks that threaten
America, and the punishment of nations that harbor these criminals,
will preserve countless lives for many generations to come--not just of
Americans, but of all people in the world who cherish freedom and
democracy as a way of life. We must use the full might of America and
its allies to create a secure world for all of us to live in.
Our world changed dramatically with one swift, despicable act of
terrorism. We will never be able to return to the world that existed
before September 11. But America has the tremendous resilience to heal,
recover and grow stronger after great periods of tragedy. We will meet
this new challenge, and rebuild a society that embraces even more
vigorously the ideals of freedom and democracy.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support H.J. Res. 64 to give the President
the unwavering support he needs to successfully execute America's
mission. Eradicating this terrorist threat is a daunting--but
achievable--challenge. America will prevail, because her cause is just.
Freedom will endure, because America is its protector.
Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I've been in Congress for
nearly six years. Never have I been so torn over a vote. Even though I
am going to vote for this legislation, I have deep concerns and grave
reservations about it.
First, it is too narrow. We need a comprehensive anti-terrorist
approach. This legislation does not represent such a comprehensive
strategy and war against terrorism around the world. It only pertains
to the terrorism associated with the events surrounding September 11,
2001. This legislation looks backward, not forward. This legislation
fails to develop a strategy to combat and prevent potential or future
acts of terrorism.
Second, and paradoxically, it is too broad. The literal language of
this legislation can be read as broadly as executive interpreters want
to read it, which gives the President awesome and undefined power. As
written, the resolution could be interpreted, if read literally, to
give the President the authority to deploy or use our armed forces
domestically.
Earlier today I voted to support $40 billion in supplemental spending
for a fight against terrorism and public social spending for New York's
recovery. Tonight I would have preferred to support a vote to reaffirm
the authority of the President under the War Powers Act, which gives
the President all the authority he currently needs to fight terrorism
and protect the citizens of the United States. That would give all
Americans more time--60 or 90 days--to investigate more and learn more
about all of the issues and facts involved on September 11.
I support the President's commitment to investigate, capture, and
punish all of those responsible for this horrible and inhumane deed.
This was not only an assault on our nation and our people, but an
indiscriminate attack on civilian life. Thus, I also support and
approve removing the sanctuaries and support systems of terrorists. I
urge all governments to unite to investigate this crime, to prevent its
recurrence, and to being to justice those who are responsible.
I support doing whatever is constitutionally lawful and necessary to
isolate those nations who sponsor and harbor terrorists. But I am not
voting to give the President new authority--in the words of Deputy
Secretary of Defense Paul D. Wolfowitz--to ``end states who sponsor
terrorism.'' We need to operate within traditional constitutional
constraints.
I would have preferred to have voted to reaffirm the War Powers Act
because it, after 60 or 90 days of the President launching a military
response to these terrorist attacks, the President had returned with
more information on who did this and how it happened, I might be
prepared to vote $100 billion to fight terrorism. And if, after 60 or
90 days, President Bush returned with a request and a rationale for new
and expanded presidential authority, I may have been willing to vote to
grant him that as well-but not now.
In private meetings all day yesterday, Members raised serious
questions and concerns that troubled me greatly.
Some Members noted the similarity to the open-endedness of this
resolution to the Tonkin Gulf Resolution. We know the consequences of
the vote, which was based on insufficient information and, in that
instance we now know, deception. Senators Wayne Morse of Oregon and
Ernest Gruening of Alaska voted ``No'' on August 7, 1964, and they are
seen as wise and heroic today. I am not voting ``Yes'' on September 14,
2001, for an open-ended Tonkin Gulf-type Resolution. I do not want a
repeat of the Johnson administration--which used it to provide dubious
legal cover for a massive escalation of an unwinnable war in Vietnam--
for either a similar domestic or foreign over-reach against terrorism.
I'm not willing to give President Bush carte blanche authority to fight
terrorism. We need to agree to fight it together within traditional
constitutional boundaries.
Another Member asked, ``By voting for this resolution, are we
granting the President new authority to conduct extra-legal and extra-
constitutional assassinations?'' If we are, we are becoming like the
terrorists we despise. What does killing people already willing to die
really accomplish? It will only create martyrs and multiply terrorists.
We must not become like those who believe that the end justifies any
means in the struggle against terrorism. That is the logic of the
terrorists. We must respond to this outage, but we must not validate
this logic. We must respond to this outrage effectively-by eliminating
the underlying grievances that is motivating the terrorism in the first
place. What we must do is affirm the principles that came under attack
on September 11--respect for innocent life and international law. That
is how to rob the terrorists of victory.
Recently President Bush said the United States ``will make no
distinction between the terrorists who committed these acts and those
who harbored them.'' But we must make distinctions. In the words of
Human Rights
[[Page H5676]]
Watch, we must distinguish ``between the guilty and the innocent;
between those who commit atrocities and those who may simply share
their religious beliefs, ethnicity, or national origin. People
committed to justice and law and human rights must never descend to the
level of the perpetrators of such acts. That is the most important
distinction of all.''
Another Member said we needed to show national unity. A vote to
reaffirm the War Powers Act would have given us the national unity we
need--and would have given us 60 days to investigate this matter more
fully and see more clearly what we are actually looking at.
Another Member said she had been in Congress for 19 years, but never
had been asked to make a decision and cast a vote with so little
information. In light of one Senator's breach of trust, the
administration is now withholding information from Members of Congress.
We are voting huge sums of money and granting virtual unlimited
authority to the President with little actual information.
Other Members expressed a concern that if we are going to conduct a
``comprehensive and sustained war against terrorism that eliminates
terrorists and terrorism root and branch'' that we must give Americans
an understanding of why there are so many people in the world who hate
us. We must explore and learn why people are willing to give their very
lives in suicidal missions; and why their supporters dance and
celebrate in the streets when these terrorists inhumanely succeed to
destroying American lives and our symbols of economic power and
military might.
I have raised the concern that we need more time to explain to the
American people that this is a new kind of protracted war. This is not
the kind of war former President Bush fought in the Persian Gulf that
ended in just over a month. This is a war that will be fought in public
places on our shores and within our borders--in our crowded public
buildings, in our subways, in our airports, in our train stations, in
our colleges and universities, at our sporting events, and possibly
with chemical and biological weapons. The War Powers Act would have
allowed us at least 60 to 90 days to better understand and inform the
American people about the nature of the war that today they are so
anxious to fight.
I too am deeply hurt, distraught, in mourning, fearful, and angry.
But we must resist the temptation to allow ourselves to become like
those we today so despise. Terrorist violence must be halted, but the
pain behind their rage must be heard and addressed. Human beings become
terrorists in an ocean of despair. Therefore, any comprehensive
approach to ending terrorism must address the waves of pain and
injustice of the ocean. The most effective anti-terrorist campaign is
one that replaces the despair and hopelessness of the terrorist's
supporters with a policy that brings dignity, respect, and justice to
every person, neighborhood, community, and nation in the world.
Ms. WATSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the
resolution authorizing the use of force against those persons
responsible for recent acts of terrorism against the United States. The
resolution is balanced and seeks to ensure that the Congress will be
included in the consultative process when and if U.S. troops are
introduced into hostilities. I strongly believe that the resolution
will continue to enjoy strong bipartisan support only if the Executive,
in good faith, consults with and informs the Congress in a timely
manner.
I should also note that the resolution is not a carte blanche
endorsement for the use of force against any suspected terrorist group
anywhere in the world, but is more narrowly crafted to endorse all
necessary and appropriate use of force against nations, organizations,
and persons that participated in the attacks that occurred on September
11.
Mr. Speaker, although I support the resolution, I am mindful of the
gravity and seriousness of putting U.S. troops and other governmental
personnel in harms way. It is highly probable that more U.S. lives will
be lost in our struggle to excise the cancer of terrorism wherever it
poses a threat to the U.S., the Western world, and our allies in the
non-West. Other countless innocents will also lose their lives. This is
not Desert Storm, an operation of relatively short duration that
witnessed minimal loss of American lives. Our national commitment to
the task ahead of us will require vigilance and forbearance. It will
also require that we remain mindful of the fact that the United States
is an open society and that any policy or action implemented by the
U.S. Government will ultimately fail if it does not have the support of
the American people.
Mr. Speaker, in this time of tragedy that has provoked visceral
outrage, we must, nonetheless, continue to exercise prudence and good
judgment in the prosecution of the U.S. response to these terrorist
acts. Indeed a military response alone could ultimately prove to be
counterproductive, instead fueling anti-U.S. sentiment, increased
alienation, and heightened fanaticism. Instead of eliminating the virus
of terrorism we could be creating a new and more virulent strain. Any
military action must also be accompanied by a sustained economic and
diplomatic response aimed at eliminating all centers of terrorist
activities while enhancing the stability and strength of our regional
allies.
The task ahead of us is complicated and any resolution will not be
quick or easy. Our ultimate success in rooting out terrorism will
require patience, sustained commitment, and more, not less, engagement
in the world.
I pledge my support to the President as he leads the United States
forth to meet this historic challenge.
Mr. VITTER. Mr. Speaker, this week's terrorist attacks against the
American people are nothing less than cold-blooded murder and an act of
war. I fully support this resolution and urge the President to use any
and all means necessary against those nations, organizations, and
persons who committed or participated in these heinous acts.
These attacks will only strengthen our resolve to defend the United
States and our way of life. These attacks are not just an attack
against this wonderful land we call America--they are attacks against
our people, our democracy, our values, our civilization. As a nation,
we will not rest until we have methodically defeated those who use fear
as a weapon against the principles for which our country stands. We are
coming after them full throttle.
Finally, we must not forget that thousands of Americans lost their
lives this week, and many thousands more lost mothers and fathers, sons
and daughters, brothers and sisters, friends and colleagues. My heart,
my prayers, and my condolences go out to them all.
Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday, September 11, 2001, the United
States suffered perhaps the darkest day in its history. Yesterday, this
body approved legislation to aid the families of the victims and those
that gave their lives trying to save them. Today, we turn our attention
to the pursuit of the terrorists that carried out this horrific act. I
strongly support this resolution to authorize the President to use the
necessary force to find and punish those responsible.
I do not believe passing this resolution is legally necessary. The
Constitution gives the President the power to strike back at our
aggressors. However, I do believe that it is necessary for Congress to
show overwhelming support for the battle that lies ahead. It will not
be an easy fight, and it will not be a short one. But it is a
confrontation that we will meet head on, united by the memory of those
lost and the values and freedom we hold so dearly. And we will be
victorious.
Mr. Speaker, tonight we send a clear message to the world that we are
prepared to respond to the forces of hate as previous generations have
done before us. I am confident that the compassion and resolve that has
come to define the American spirit will see us through this most trying
time. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.
Mr. MALONEY of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I come to the floor today to
address the necessity, imposed on us by unspeakable acts of terrorism,
for the United States to respond to the killing and injuring of
thousands of our fellow citizens, almost all innocent civilians.
This Nation has the right and obligation to both respond to and
defend itself from the violent enemies of our freedom and liberty.
Those persons and/or entities that were either directly involved in or
provided any assistance to the acts of September 11 pose a clear and
present danger to the lives of our people and to our very national
security. We will find those responsible and make certain that they,
and anyone who helped them, are fully punished. This attack on America
and its people will not stand.
Moreover, as we cannot rule out future attacks on U.S. soil or to
American interests overseas, we must take a comprehensive approach to
this challenge. Appropriately, we will utilize the first rate
capabilities of our Armed Forces to ensure the personal security of
each and every one of us, at home and abroad. To that end, we commit
ourselves by the resolution before us, to root out terrorism wherever
it is found around the world.
It will not be an easy task to defeat terrorism. It will require
considerable resources and patience. There is no quick solution. I am
confident, however, that the President and the Congress, working
together, will find the means and methods to prevail.
As a member of the Armed Service Committee, I along with my committee
colleagues will perform our duty in providing U.S. Armed Forces the
necessary resources to deter and defeat the threat of terrorism. I know
that our colleagues will support our work.
There is yet considerable work to be done in the days and months
ahead. I am confident that our Nation, and our Armed Forces called upon
to defend all Americans, will meet the challenges that lie ahead--just
as we have from Concord and Lexington through the war in the Persian
Gulf.
I strongly urge passage of the resolution.
Mr. COYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution
authorizing the President to use military force against the nations,
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organizations, or individuals involved in the September 11 terrorist
attacks on citizens of the United States.
These were reprehensible attacks against innocent men, women, and
children. Anyone who was involved in planning or carrying out these
attacks must be punished swiftly and severely.
Moreover, since it is logical to assume that the parties which
planned and provided logistical support for Tuesday's terrible attacks
are interested in--and capable of--carrying out similar attacks in the
future, it is imperative that the United States use whatever means are
necessary to prevent them from doing so.
Finally, it is important to recognize that the United States has
aggressively pursued legal and diplomatic measures over the last 30
years to curb terrorism--and that it is logical to conclude from this
experience that such measures will not be effective enough to deal with
the threat that terrorism poses today.
For these reasons, I support this resolution. I believe that the
United States Government has no choice but to utilize military force to
punish the organizers of the September 11 attacks and protect the
people of this nation from future terrorist threats.
Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, today was one of the saddest days in the
history of our beloved country. It is impossible to watch the events
caused by evil unfold before our eyes without feeling great sorrow and
great anger. We will never forget the sorrow we collectively feel as a
nation. Mr. Speaker, we will also never forget the anger and fury we
feel toward those who have hurt and killed so many innocent Americans.
I pledge my fortune and honor to do everything in my power to bring
justice on all those who have so injured this country and its citizens
as we pass this resolution.
However, today was a day of prayer and I was moved by the prayer
service at the National Cathedral here in our Nation's Capital. I was
very touched by the comments of our President at that service, Mr.
Speaker, and now make them a part of this Record as we put on the
shoulders of our President a burden no one man can possibly bear
without the help of God.
Mr. Speaker, the President's words today:
We are here in the middle hour of our grief. So many have
suffered so great a loss, and today we express our nation's
sorrow. We come before God to pray for the missing and the
dead, and for those who loved them.
On Tuesday, our country was attacked with deliberate and
massive cruelty. We have seen the images of fire and ashes
and bent steel.
Now come the names, the list of casualties we are only
beginning. They are the names of men and women who began
their day at a desk or in an airport, busy with live. They
are the names of people who faced death and in their last
moments called home to say, be brave and I love you.
They are the names of passengers who defied their murderers
and prevented the murder of others on the ground. They are
the names of men and women who wore the uniform of the United
States and died at their posts.
They are the names of rescuers--the ones whom death found
running up the stairs and into the fires to help others. We
will read all these names. We will linger over them and learn
their stories, and many Americans will weep.
To the children and parents and spouses and families and
friends of the lost, we offer the deepest sympathy of the
nation. And I assure you, you are not alone.
Just three days removed from these events, Americans do not
yet have the distance of history, but our responsibility to
history is already clear: to answer these attacks and rid the
world of evil.
War has been waged against us by stealth and deceit and
murder.
This nation is peaceful, but fierce when stirred to anger.
This conflict was begun on the timing and terms of others; it
will end in a way and at an hour of our choosing.
Our purpose as a nation is firm, yet our wounds as a people
are recent and unhealed and lead us to pray. In many of our
prayers this week, there's a searching and an honesty. At St.
Patrick's Cathedral in New York, on Tuesday, a woman said,
``I pray to God to give us a sign that he's still here.''
Others have prayed for the same, searching hospital to
hospital, carrying pictures of those still missing.
God's signs are not always the one we look for. We learn in
tragedy that his purposes are not always our own, yet the
prayers of private suffering, whether in our homes or in this
great cathedral are known and heard and understood.
There are prayers that help us last through the day or
endure the night. There are prayers of friends and strangers
that give us strength for the journey, and there are prayers
that yield our will to a will greater than our own.
This world He created is of moral design. Grief and tragedy
and hatred are only for a time. Goodness, remembrance and
love have no end, and the Lord of life holds all who die and
all who mourn.
It is said that adversity introduces us to ourselves.
This is true of a nation as well. In this trial, we have
been reminded and the world has seen that our fellow
Americans are generous and kind, resourceful and brave.
We see our national character in rescuers working past
exhaustion, in long lines of blood donors, in thousands of
citizens who have asked to work and serve in any way
possible. And we have seen our national character in eloquent
acts of sacrifice. Inside the World Trade Center, one man who
could have saved himself stayed until the end and at the side
of his quadriplegic friend. A beloved priest died giving the
last rites to a firefighter. Two office workers, finding a
disabled stranger, carried her down 68 floors to safety.
A group of men drove through the night from Dallas to
Washington to bring skin grafts for burned victims. In these
acts and many others, Americans showed a deep commitment to
one another and in an abiding love for our country.
Today, we feel what Franklin Roosevelt called, ``the warm
courage of national unity.'' This is a unity of every faith
and every background. This has joined together political
parties and both houses of Congress. It is evident in
services of prayer and candlelight vigils and American flags,
which are displayed in pride and waved in defiance. Our unity
is a kinship of grief and a steadfast resolve to prevail
against our enemies. And this unity against terror is now
extending across the world.
America is a nation full of good fortune, with so much to
be grateful for, but we are not spared from suffering. In
every generation, the world has produced enemies of human
freedom. They have attacked America because we are freedom's
home and defender, and the commitment of our fathers is now
the calling of our time.
On this national day of prayer and remembrance, we ask
almighty God to watch over our nation and grant us patience
and resolve in all that is to come. We pray that He will
comfort and console those who now walk in sorrow. We thank
Him for every life we now must mourn, and the promise of a
life to come.
As we've been assured, neither death nor life nor angels
nor principalities, nor powers nor things present nor things
to come nor height nor depth can separate us from God's love.
May He bless the souls of the departed. May He comfort our
own. And may He always guide our country.
God bless America.
Mr. McGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution.
I support our President as he seeks to respond effectively to this
unparalleled attack, which has left our nation shocked and angered. But
no matter the rate we feel today, our response must reflect our
national character, and be guided by justice and our right to self-
defense, not by vengeance.
I want those responsible for these heinous crimes to be hunted down
and held accountable--in full compliance with our Constitution and our
laws. They must pay for their murder of thousands of innocent American
citizens and others.
I want to break the global network of terrorism so that no other
nation, people or group will know the pain and sorrow America is not
experiencing. To be successful, we will need a multilateral,
coordinated effort of law enforcement, intelligence and military
resources. We cannot do this alone.
I want the best of America to continue to shine--so that the world is
reassured that the United States remains a haven for freedom of
religion, freedom of speech, freedom of association. Our heritage is
rooted in diversity and tolerance, and nothing must abrogate the
fundamental freedoms and rights of our people.
I believe this resolution achieves these goals. The body of this
resolution is appropriately limited to those entities involved in the
attacks that occurred on September 11th. It appropriately and
explicitly abides by and invokes the authority of the War Powers
Resolution. It reiterates the existing constitutional powers of the
President to take action to defend the United States, but provides no
new or additional grant of powers to the President.
The President should still consult regularly with the Congress about
his intentions, actions and policy as they evolve. The president and
the Congress must work together, in concert, in order to maintain the
unity so necessary to success. That will require timely consultation,
reporting and updates, and a genuine desire to maintain the bipartisan
support for this undertaking.
We know military action alone will never defeat terrorism. Last
Tuesday, we saw the consequences of raw hate. It has no logic. It has
no respect for human life or dignity. It holds no promise for the
future. It has no single base or leader. We can, however, begin to
address some of the underlying problems that can lead to terror.
We can continue our leadership to help negotiate just and lasting
solutions to the world's many conflicts, including in the Middle East.
We can renew our engagement with the international community to find
solutions to the global challenges of our times: the environment,
weapons proliferation, disease and intolerance.
Our country is unified. We can respond effectively to the horror of
September 11th. We
[[Page H5678]]
can break the links between terrorists. We can contribute to a world
that is not only secure from the threat of terrorism, but also free of
the poverty and oppression that are its breeding ground. We must
exercise the political will to make this happen.
This resolution helps us begin to achieve these goals, and I urge its
adoption.
Mr. STUMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this
resolution.
Since the terrible and tragic events of Tuesday, this country and the
rest of the world have witnessed the determination of the American
people to come together, to rally around our President, and to
transcend the tragedy that fell our great Nation.
America's anger at those who planned and perpetrated these terrorist
acts is palpable. This Congress has stood as one in expressing our
grief over the tragic loss of life, our pride in those who continue the
rescue and recovery efforts, and our determination to ensure that those
who support the use of terror are severely punished. Now, we must
express our unified support for the President to take all necessary and
appropriate actions to ensure that the terrorists and their supporters
do not win in their effort to undermine our way of life.
Mr. Speaker, the President has been forceful and direct--freedom and
democracy are under attack by a determined enemy. This battle will take
time and resolve, he stated, but we will win. In our effort to root out
the evil that is terrorism, we will once again call upon the dedicated
men and women who voluntarily serve our country in uniform. It is their
greatness that gives us confidence in our ultimate victory.
The fight against terrorism will be a long and difficult campaign. It
requires a serious commitment. But the President must know that the
Congress supports him by providing him with the tools he needs to
prosecute this battle. The Congress has already agreed to provide
significant additional funds for the war on terrorism. Now, in this
decisive moment, we must stand behind our troops and send a clear
signal to our enemies that the President's actions have our unanimous
support.
Passage of this resolution will send that signal.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, and I
yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. BALDACCI. Mr. Speaker, America was changed forever on Tuesday
morning. Every one of us has been deeply affected by the terror attack
on our Nation. Virtually all of us know someone or know of someone who
was directly impacted.
Yesterday, I visited the Pentagon and saw first-hand the destruction
that was inflicted on that building and its occupants. I am not able to
find words to adequately convey just how chilling a scene it was, and I
will never forget those gruesome images.
Law enforcement officials are moving swiftly to identify those who
were responsible for this heinous crime. Soon it will be clear who
committed these unspeakable acts, and those who supported and protected
them. And once it is clear the United States will respond.
We respond not simply out of revenge. We act because war has been
declared upon America. We act because our world must be rid of
terrorists who think nothing of destroying innocent lives. We act in
the name of thousands of innocent victims.
This was not just an attack on four planes, or two buildings, or one
nation. Rather, it was an attack on democracy and freedom around the
globe. America and our allies will rise to the occasion and fight this
scourge just as we have risen to defeat past threats to civilization
and democracy.
To that end, today I will vote to authorize President Bush to use all
necessary and appropriate force to respond to the terror attacks on our
nation. This resolution conveys the resolve of the Congress and the
American people that those responsible for this heinous crime will be
identified and punished.
Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of President
George W. Bush, by agreeing to grant him the authorization to use the
resources of the United States to eradicate the evil forces that
perpetuate terrorism, through the enactment of H.J. Res. 64.
The barbaric, heinous attacks launched against the civilian and
military population of this great nation on September 11, 2001 must
not, and will not be tolerated, nor go unpunished.
I ask the people of this great nation, and our allies around the
world, to stand with President Bush and support him with their voices,
their continued heroic deeds and volunteerism, and most-importantly,
with their prayers.
I ask the people of this Nation to pray for forgiveness for the
immorality in this country that has become so widespread and which has
contributed to the fragmentation of religious thought.
I ask the people of this nation to thank God for the many blessings
which have been so generously bestowed upon this nation.
God be with those who have paid the ultimate price for liberty and
freedom, and with those who will do so in the future in the effort to
restore security and peace for all of us.
God bless this great land, the United States of America.
Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
resolution. We must ensure that our Commander in Chief can bring the
full power of the United States Armed Forces to bear against the
villains who struck our nation so cruelly the morning of September
11th. We act not out of wrath, but with the solemn realization that
evil must not go unchecked, that our security must be defended, and
that our liberty must be upheld. We stand together tonight united in
our resolve to fight the scourge of terrorism and protect our beloved
country and its people. We understand that it will not be easy and that
it will require sustained action, commitment, and vigilance. We must
steel ourselves for the months ahead and bear in mind the words
inscribed on the base of the Marine War Memorial Iwo Jima: ``Uncommon
Valor Was a Common Virtue.'' They remind us of the character and
courage of those who serve in our Armed Forces, and I think they also
apply to all who put their own lives on the line in an effort to save
lives during and after Tuesday's terrible attacks. Now is the time for
valor for all Americans.
Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, in the aftermath of the recent terrorist
attacks on the United States, Americans have responded to the cries of
their fellow citizens. From the many emergency personnel who arrived
moments after the first impact, to the volunteers from all over the
country arriving to help or donate blood, to the United States
Congress, who has appropriated $40 billion help pay for recovery
efforts, we have responded. Now it is time to plan the next part of our
response: how to punish the perpetrators of this attack and how to
protect ourselves in the future.
Our country has come together to get through this time of great
tragedy. Members on both sides of the aisle have appropriately put
aside partisan politics and present a unified front against terrorism.
Most Americans feel that we should strike back at the individuals,
groups, or nations that were involved in these atrocities. I, too,
think we should respond to this heinous attack, bring those involved to
justice, and put an end to global terrorism. That said, however, I do
not believe--even in times of extreme crisis--that the Congress should
turn over our constitutional responsibilities to the President. The
resolution we are debating today, I fear, begins to do just that.
When writing the Constitution, our Founding Fathers created a balance
of powers between the three branches of government to prevent one
branch from inappropriately dominating another. Although the
Constitution empowers the President as Commander in Chief, it gives the
Congress the sole power of declaring war. This resolution gives the
President the power to conduct a war without reporting to or consulting
with Congress. Frankly stated, it cedes congressional authority to the
President.
I have real reservations about the resolution we are considering
today. It should contain explicit language ensuring that the President
reports to Congress and consults with us in planning and executing a
military response. But it does not.
That being said, this resolution is better than earlier versions that
were considered. It now makes clear that nothing supersedes the War
Powers Act, which requires the President to report and consult with
Congress.
Given those facts, I will support the resolution before us today.
However, I will continue to insist that the President make Congress an
integral part of our nation's response to these attacks. To do
otherwise goes against the best interest of the people we represent and
the democracy we seek to protect.
Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
resolution granting authority to the President to use force to respond
to the attack on the United States on September 11, 2001.
Our country was the target of an unprovoked, cowardly and vicious
attack on Tuesday morning. This act of war committed against our people
must not go unanswered and I urge the President to use the authority we
are about to give him in an appropriate and decisive manner. We must
prevail over our enemy and we must be willing to use the force
necessary to achieve total victory.
At this dramatic moment in our history, as we grieve for the loss of
thousands of innocent lives and begin to bury our dead, we must not
lose sight that this was not just an attack on our government or even
our nation. This must be seen as a monstrous attack aimed at the
security and way of life of freedom-loving people throughout the world.
Mr. Speaker, words cannot adequately describe my feelings or the
feelings of Americans with regard to the attack on New York and
Washington. However, I know that through the sadness and anger will
grow an unbending determination not to be intimidated
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by the forces of terror and death. America is a great and a good
country. We are also now a united people with a common purpose--to seek
out and crush the terrorists and their supporters.
I urge support for this resolution, for our President and for the
people of the United States.
Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution.
Our nation was viciously attacked on Tuesday, September 11, 2001,
leaving children without fathers and mothers, parents mourning their
missing children, families experiencing terrible emptiness and loss.
All Americans feel the horror, shock, fear, and anger.
The country has been attacked, and as Commander-in-Chief, the
President has the power to act to defend the United States of America.
Congress recognized this nearly thirty years ago in the War Powers
Resolution.
Yet by recognizing the authority our President already possesses
under the War Power Resolution, we send a strong statement of national
unity. By approving this resolution today, we stand united, as one
nation, stating clearly to the perpetrators of this crime, and those
who would attack our country in the future, that we will protect our
citizens and ensure the guilty are punished.
The horrible crisis is also an opportunity. It is an opportunity for
the United States to once again demonstrate to the world the sources of
its strength and greatness. I am not speaking of our military might,
although it is powerful. We will demonstrate our greatness by the way
we seek justice and the way we promote freedom. We will determine with
certainty who is culpable and punish them and those who aid them,
rather than let our rage lash out indiscriminately.
Community leaders in my district have produced a statement expressing
their outrage and sorrow. Wisely they noted that the victims of this
attack reflect the diversity of America. They wrote in fact that: ``the
backgrounds of its innocent victims are representative of the world's
diversity, from Africa to the Americas, Europe to Asia, the Middle
East, and beyond.'' As we move forward in seeking justice for the many
victims, we must direct our punishment only upon the guilty.
The American people stand behind this quest for justice. With our
many friends around the world, we will fight to end the scourge of
terrorism. As we rise to this challenge, we must do so relying on
America's strengths without sacrificing our cherished principles. Our
constitutional liberties stand as an example to the world of what
freedom means. We must never forget that we pursue justice in order to
secure liberty.
Mr. BONILLA. Mr. Speaker, Evil. It is a word we use too lightly. A
word we use when horrible, distasteful, or bad would be more
appropriate. It is a word which should be reserved for only the most
monstrous and inhuman of circumstances. My colleagues, we have
witnessed evil this week. The twin tragedies in New York and
Washington, the massacre of innocents, must never happen again. Today,
with this legislation, we are sending the world a message. We are
stating that America does not recoil in the face of evil. On the
contrary, America rises up.
In the last century we faced down the evils of Nazism and Communism.
Today, we will face down the evils of terrorism. This evil although a
phantom will not be able to hide. The basic goodness that we have seen
demonstrated by the firemen, police, military, and civilians at the
rescue scenes reflects the basic goodness of America. The selflessness,
determination and patience tell us that freedom will be preserved and
triumph over this threat.
My colleagues, the forces of evil signed a death warrant for terror
last Tuesday. They have unleashed the wrath of the American people. The
struggle ahead may be a long one. Ultimately, we will triumph. We will
preserve freedom for future generations. We will guarantee hope remains
for all mankind. My colleagues please join me in voting for this
resolution. God bless America.
Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Joint
Resolution 64, which will authorize the use of force in responding to
the terrorist threat that violated the shores of the United States on
September 11, 2001. I do not take this action lightly. I fully
recognize that this single resolution, though brief in text, will have
far-reaching consequences. But, I am certain that this is the only
right course of action for our institution and our nation.
The violence that left so many innocent Americans dead or injured or
grieving for the loss of a beloved family member or friend was no less
than an act of war. Those who preach fear and hatred declared war upon
our nation and our people. Indeed, they declared war on all civilized
nations and freedom-loving peoples. We must respond in like kind.
In fact, it is our duty to respond with all the power of our
principles and all the might of our great and prosperous United States.
God has given us a noble land, as Senator Albert Beveridge once said,
``a land that can feed and clothe the world; . . . a land set like a
sentinel between the two imperial oceans of the globe.'' We must use
the gifts that have been showered upon America from the heavens to save
the world from tyranny once again.
Just as we did in World War II when we defeated a tyranny of bigotry
and hatred, we must engage in an all-out assault against this new
tyranny of fear and terror. We are unified in spirit and in purpose
and, we are joined by nations far and near. In the end, we will
prevail, providing the world with a new day of freedom and peace.
While I am certain that our road will end in victory, I know that it
will likely be a long and arduous road to travel. It will not be neat.
It will not be without bloodshed or loss of life. It will not be brief.
But it will be right and it will be just.
It is not easy to stand before my colleagues and my country knowing
that our actions will send young men and women into battle for the
cause of freedom. But, we can look their mothers and fathers in the eye
and say to them now that this is what must be done. I have little doubt
that they understand and that they take comfort in knowing that their
children are heroes in a new greatest generation.
And, I feel confident that the American people will stand with those
heroes day in and day out until our enemies have been vanquished. I am
overwhelmed with an enormous sense of pride and patriotism at the
selflessness that so many Americans have shown in recent days in
supporting the brave public safety workers and in consoling the
bereaved. That indefatigable spirit will sustain us in any battle
against any evil.
In closing, Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to remember the words of
our President Dwight D. Eisenhower in his Second Inaugural Address to
the nation as we to pass this important resolution:
Before all else, we seek, upon our common labor as a
nation, the blessings of Almighty God. And the hopes in our
hearts fashion the deepest prayers of our whole people. May
we pursue the right--without self-righteousness. May we know
unity--without conformity. May we grow in strength--without
pride in self. May we, in all our dealings with all the
peoples of the earth, ever speak truth and serve justice. And
so shall America--in the sight of all men of good will--prove
true to the honorable purposes that bind and rule us as a
people in all this time of trial through which we pass.
May God bless this mighty nation and shed his grace and blessings
upon the men and women of America's armed forces.
Mr. MARKEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution.
In his Funeral Oration, the great Athenian leader Pericles said
``heroes have the whole earth for their tomb; and in lands far from
their own, where the column with its epitaph declares it, there is
enshrined in every breast a record unwritten with no tablet to preserve
it, except that of the heart.''
The terrible events of the last few days already have produced many
heroes, from the firemen and the police officers who gave their lives
to rescue others, to the airline passengers who appear to have
sacrificed themselves to save their fellow citizens.
And like the heroes of ancient times, our heroes also have the whole
earth for their tomb; for enshrined in every breast is a record of
their deeds that we will carry forever with us.
We will never forget what happened on September 11, 2001.
And we must resolve ourselves that these lives of those who perished
in this tragedy will not have been sacrificed in vain--that out of
their deaths will arise a new commitment to preserve and defend our
American freedom.
We must now go about the grim task of identifying the monsters
responsible for starting this war and those who may be harboring them;
assuring that they pay a very heavy price for their actions.
In doing so, we call upon all of those who love peace and freedom to
join us in this crusade. The community of nations must unite to assure
that these terrorists have nowhere to run and nowhere to hide.
Together, we must hunt these criminals down to the ends of the earth
and assure they pay dearly for the crimes they have committed against
humanity.
The resolution before us provides the President with a specific
authorization, consistent with the War Powers Resolution, to use force
against those responsible for the September 11th terrorist attack.
I do not view this as an open-ended authorization for this or any
future President to wage war on any one at any time. It is, instead, in
the words of the resolution, an authority to use force against ``those
nations, organizations, or persons he determines planned, authorized,
committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September
11, 2001, or harbored such organizations or persons, in order to
prevent any future acts of international terrorism against the United
States by such nations, organizations or persons.''
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All Americans stand behind our President, his advisers, and the brave
men and women of our Armed Forces who will be asked to carry out this
mission. Our thoughts and our prayers will be with them in the days and
months ahead.
We know their task will not be easy. But they should go forward armed
with the knowledge that they have the support of all Americans--as
expressed by the unanimous vote of their elected representatives.
That is what this resolution signifies, and I urge its adoption.
Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I want to start by expressing my sorrow and
outrage at Tuesday's cowardly attack. Tuesday's savagery tore our
national fabric, but the tragedy also united the Nation. Our immediate
priorities are treating survivors, supporting victims' families,
restoring essential services, protecting our civil liberties, healing
the national psyche and finding and judging anyone who participated in
the horrendous act. We all share these imperatives and will do all that
we can to help. We all support the President in these endeavors. This
is the indomitable strength of our country.
But our eyes also turn to the future with three critical questions,
each of which calls for thorough congressional hearings. First, how
should we punish those guilty of these dastardly crimes, once we
determine who were involved? Second, how can we make sure this
nightmare never occurs again? How can we better collect intelligence,
tighten security and insist that other Nations do their share to
prevent terrorism? Third, how can we pursue both of these goals without
abandoning America's hallmark commitment to civil liberties or
forgetting the necessity to constantly battle ethnic, religious and
racial prejudice.
Punishing the Perpetrators
This week, a United Airlines flight attendant expressed the thoughts
of many Americans when she told the press ``As horrible as it is to
say, I want revenge.'' Clearly the United States will not stand for
such a brutal assault on our citizens and our country. The perpetrators
must be punished. But if we unleash the full fury of America's military
might and we kill innocent people in the process, we will be no better
than the terrorists who unleashed their fury on America's civilian
population. These acts of hijacking, murder, and terrorism are crimes
for which there are laws and punishments under Federal law. These
atrocities are not known to have been committed by nation-states but
rather by cowardly individuals who we should arrest and try as our
justice system demands. We must react with righteousness and justice
and not allow ourselves to succumb to the momentary seduction of
emotional revenge.
And if we do retaliate, we must exercise our best efforts, as we have
always done, to minimize collateral damage against innocent civilians.
To disregard that concern because feelings are running so high is to
take a path to mayhem that we will live to regret.
preventing recurrence
Some voices have described Tuesday's attack as a ``massive
intelligence and security failure.'' That path could easily lead to
frenzied finger-pointing that would distract us from necessary
improvements. Of course, we must upgrade air travel safety through a
greater government role in airport security, rather than airline hired-
security employees. Some airline pilots and other observers have deemed
current security at some U.S. airports as a ``farce.'' We now know the
terrible price paid for our neglect.
Similarly, intelligence collection about potential threats must be
improved. We should not underestimate U.S. technical and human
intelligence capabilities and past FBI and CIA successes in detecting
and disrupting terrorists' plans. Nevertheless, Tuesday's disaster
demands improved analysis of information that pours in daily. If that
is now hindered by ``information overload'', we must deal with that.
But in intelligence, as in athletics, the best defense is a good
offense. The best way to defend against terrorism is to penetrate
terrorist groups in order to preempt their plots before they begin. We
have probably neglected this aspect of intelligence gathering,
preferring instead to rely on the latest technology. This must change.
But as we take bold steps to ensure our security, we must be equally
vigilant to protect our liberties. On Tuesday, one TV network
commentator, during an interview, flatly asked what civil liberties
should be cut back for certain groups in this country. There is always
tension between public safety and liberty, a tension that we have
tested each time we faced a new threat. Americans are proud of our
commitment to protecting citizens from foreign and domestic threats
without abandoning the Constitution's guarantee of civil liberties.
There has been backsliding, to be sure, such as the relocation of
innocent Japanese-American families in the post-Pearl Harbor panic.
While the Supreme Court later upheld the constitutionality of that
action in the Korematsu case, most scholars now regard that as one of
the modern Court's most shameful decisions. Eventually, the U.S.
Government apologized to the surviving victims and provided
compensation. Thus, history demonstrates that we must periodically
review the delicate balance between national security and civil
liberty, and that when the balance is readjusted it should be done
cautiously, with great care and with an eye beyond today's headlines.
Just as terrorism can destroy lives and property, so can it destroy us
from within, causing us to turn our back on our most treasured
freedoms.
preventing scapegoating
Times of great stress also spawn scapegoating. These are very
stressful times for America, and signs of scapegoating have already
surfaced. The twentieth century has taught us the terrible consequences
of directing hostility toward an entire group of people. America has a
long, difficult history of struggling to overcome discrimination simply
on the basis of religion ethnicity and race. Now, we must guard against
turning diffuse feelings of anger against a whole group of Americans
such as Muslims or Arabs, if a handful of their members are accused of
Tuesday's murders. Already, shops and businesses owned by Americans of
Arab descent--and I emphasize ``Americans''--have been trashed and in
some cases burned. Individuals have been attacked. These hate crimes
must be stopped immediately. Federal, state and local officials should
use their powers of persuasion and publicity to stop it and, if
necessary, vigorously enforce every applicable law. I will ask the
appropriate authorities in Detroit to convene a city-wide conference to
address this danger and to exercise the necessary leadership. I have
also introduced a sense of the Congress resolution condemning these
hate crimes.
preventing gouging
There is one point that I should not have to make. Regrettably it
appears that I do. If there ever were a time when all Americans should
show a spirit of cooperation, collaboration, and mutual concern surely
this tragedy is it. Yet there are credible reports of price gouging,
profiteering, and other despicable efforts to exploit the situation
fuel prices have soared in parts of the Midwest have jumped alarmingly.
The mayor of New York has had to warn grocers and other merchants
against raising prices as customers seek to stock up in the face of
uncertainty. This selfish behavior is intolerable. I am calling on the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Federal Trade Commission
to immediately establish a joint task force to police and pursue any
abrupt price hikes in energy fuels.
I also commend my state's Attorney General, Jennifer Granholm, for
taking legal action against nine Michigan gas stations accused of price
gouging. In notice of intended action served yesterday and today,
Granholm accuses each station of charging prices for gas that are
``grossly in excess'' of the market-based price at which gasoline would
normally be sold. The Michigan Consumer Protection Act expressly
prohibits such sales practices as unfair and unconscionable under the
law.
Next, I will turn to the specific language of this resolution.
the resolution
In terms of the specifics of the resolution, as ranking member of the
Judiciary Committee, I believe it is important that the Record reflect
what the resolution does and does not do.
By not declaring war, the resolution preserves our precious civil
liberties. This is important because declarations of war trigger broad
statutes that not only criminalize interference with troops and
recruitment but also authorize the President to apprehend ``alien
enemies.'' Having said that, the President has declared that we are in
a national emergency. Such an emergency triggers other, less severe
statutes, including criminal prohibitions on the destruction of war
materials.
Second, this resolution does not give the President perpetual
authority to use military force. Not only does Congress have the
constitutional duty to oversee the President's use of our men and women
in uniform, if has every expectation of revisiting the President's need
of the Armed Forces during his pursuit of the terrorists. Should
Congress later determine that the President needs more or less
authority than he has been given, we will act accordingly.
Finally, this resolution implicitly requires that the President
comply with section 4(a) of the War Powers Resolution. That section
requires the President to report to Congress whenever U.S. Armed Forces
are introduced into hostilities, into foreign territories while
equipped for combat, or into foreign territories to substantially
enlarge an existing force. These reports will allow Congress to ensure
that the needs of the President and the Armed Forces are being met
during this on-going crisis.
Mr. Speaker, let us grieve for the victims. Let us restore the
destruction. But let us also rededicate ourselves to preserving those
very principles that have been the ultimate source of America's
strength.
Ms. KILPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, this week my emotions have run the
gamut. On the one hand I have seen my son take a step closer
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to becoming the youngest mayor in the history of Detroit. Yet, my joy
has been destroyed by the hands that inflicted the worst attack against
the United States since Pearl Harbor. I share the pain of Tuesday's
attack with millions of Americans who have witnessed the subsequent
carnage. My emotions cry out for retribution; yet my head tells me that
while we must be resolute, we must also be deliberate and circumspect.
For now, as a nation, we stand at the edge of the abyss. We are
poised to make the leap that our nation has rarely been called on to
make; yet when called to do so, we have leaped with everything that we
have. We are poised today to leap into the abyss of war and we cannot
do so timidly. Our determination to triumph over terrorism must be
resolute and undeterred. It is with a heavy heart that I stand before
the American people prepared to tip my hand in favor of using military
force. War intrinsically means the loss of lives. And I know that, in
addition to the blood that has already been shed, our actions today
will sanction further bloodshed of our sons and daughters. However,
there are times when circumstance leaves us no choice. Tuesday's attack
has left no doubt that our enemies seek to bring America under siege.
We have no choice but to protect ourselves, and I have no choice but to
support this joint resolution authorizing the President to respond
militarily against our enemies.
Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution, which
authorizes the use of force against those responsible for planning and
carrying out Tuesday's horrific terrorist attacks. I don't take this
lightly. Authorizing the use of our military is one of the most awesome
responsibilities we have as members of this body. But at this moment we
have no choice. We know the hijackers had ties to Osama bin Laden and
his Al-Qaeda organization, which also bombed our embassies in Kenya and
Tanzania and attacked the U.S.S. Cole.
The American people will no longer tolerate these barbaric acts. We
must do whatever it takes, including the use of military force, to
tract down bin Laden and destroy his organization. But this isn't just
about bin Laden. There are other radical groups that engage in
international terrorism, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and Islamic Jihad.
To win the war against terrorism, we must eliminate the entire
infrastructure that sustains these organizations.
This will involve getting tough with governments that aid and harbor
terrorists. Syria allows Hezbollah to operate freely in Southern
Lebanon. Iran recently hosted a terrorist ``summit,'' and routinely
provides arms and other assistance to Hezbollah and other radical
groups. bin Laden is a ``guest'' of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.
The suicide bombers of Islamic Jihad and Hamas are nurtured by the
Palestinian Authority.
The time has come for these and other governments to make a
fundamental choice: Will they continue to support those responsible for
taking the lives of thousands of innocent men, women and children? Or
will they realize the error of their ways and end their financing,
facilitating and harboring of terrorists and their organizational
infrastructure, and their state-sponsored incitement of terrorist acts?
For if they choose to continue their present course they are not states
of concern, they are not rogue states, they are our enemies.
I applaud the administration's efforts to assemble an international
coalition to fight terrorism. Working with our allies and other nations
concerned about this scourge, we have a real opportunity to make the
world safer for freedom and democracy.
Ms. SANCHEZ. Mr. Speaker, I will miss the rollcall vote on H.J. Res.
64, which will formally authorizes the use of military force against
the perpetrators of the terrorist attacks which occurred on September
11, 2001.
I have scheduled very important meetings in California over the
weekend and Monday with district employers and employees to discuss the
defense budget and other matters of national security. These meetings
have been scheduled for some time, and cannot be easily reconfigured.
Therefore, during the vote I will be unavoidably detained. The events
of September 11 were horrific, and I request that the Congressional
Record reflect that had I been present and voting, I would have cast my
vote in favor of the resolution authorizing the use of military force.
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give the President the
authorization and support he needs to respond to the acts of terror
committed this week against the American people.
When I was elected to this House, I took an oath to ``support and
defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies,
foreign and domestic.'' Today I reaffirm that vow by giving the
President the authority to prosecute the battle against our enemies
wherever they may hide.
The armed forces of the United States are the best in the world. And
the men and women serving in them are ready to act and know our cause
to be just.
There is no justification for these despicable actions. There is no
justification for providing support or assistance to those who would
wage war against innocent men, women and children. There is no place to
hide from our coming actions.
In the words of another great President who led this nation in a time
of turmoil, Abraham Lincoln, ``Let us have faith that right makes
might; and in that faith let us to the end, dare to do our duty as we
understand it.''
Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this joint resolution and
in doing so, I stand in support of the President, the men and women of
our Armed Forces, and Americans everywhere.
This egregious crime has struck the heart and soul of America but we
will not falter or fail in our ideals and values; we will recover. This
process is underway in the rescue, recovery and investigative efforts
happening in Pennsylvania, New York, and the Washington DC, areas.
Last night both bodies of Congress passed a supplemental aid package
to assist the President in providing necessary aid and support in the
wake of these tragedies. Now, Congress should give the President the
authority to find and punish those responsible for these crimes against
humanity.
If the goal of these attacks was to demoralize or scare America and
other peace loving nations, let me be clear in saying that these
terrorists failed their mission. I say to them, your ungodly actions
will be punished. We are a strong and united America.
The deplorable events that occurred on the morning of Tuesday,
September 11, 2001, were undeniably an act of war. There is no other
way to classify the murder of defenseless, innocent civilians. I urge
my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution, giving the
President our support to reinforce that the use of terror as a weapon
will never be tolerated.
The SPEAKER. All time for debate has expired.
Pursuant to the order of the House of today, the joint resolution is
considered as having been read for amendment and the previous question
is ordered.
The question is on the engrossment and third reading of the joint
resolution.
The joint resolution was ordered to be engrossed and read a third
time, and was read the third time.
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