    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
    [January 14, 1991]
    [Page 40]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Signing the Resolution Authorizing the Use of Military
    Force Against Iraq
    January 14, 1991

        Today I am signing H.J. Res. 77, the ``Authorization for Use of
    Military Force Against Iraq Resolution.'' By passing H.J. Res. 77, the
    Congress of the United States has expressed its approval of the use of
    U.S. Armed Forces consistent with U.N. Security Council Resolution 678.
    I asked the Congress to support implementation of U.N. Security Council
    Resolution 678 because such action would send the clearest possible
    message to Saddam Hussein that he must withdraw from Kuwait without
    condition or delay. I am grateful to those of both political parties who
    joined in the expression of resolve embodied in this resolution. To all,
    I emphasize again my conviction that this resolution provides the best
    hope for peace.
        The debate on H.J. Res. 77 reflects the profound strength of our
    constitutional democracy. In coming to grips with the issues at stake in
    the Gulf, both Houses of Congress acted in the finest traditions of our
    country. This resolution provides unmistakable support for the
    international community's determination that Iraq's ongoing aggression
    against, and occupation of, Kuwait shall not stand. As I made clear to
    congressional leaders at the outset, my request for congressional
    support did not, and my signing this resolution does not, constitute any
    change in the long-standing positions of the executive branch on either
    the President's constitutional authority to use the Armed Forces to
    defend vital U.S. interests or the constitutionality of the War Powers
    Resolution. I am pleased, however, that differences on these issues
    between the President and many in the Congress have not prevented us
    from uniting in a common objective. I have had the benefit of extensive
    and meaningful consultations with the Congress throughout this crisis,
    and I shall continue to consult closely with the Congress in the days
    ahead.

                                                                 George Bush

    The White House,
    January 14, 1991.

                        Note: H.J. Res. 77, approved January 14, was
                            assigned Public Law No. 102-1.