[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 38 (Monday, September 24, 2001)]
[Pages 1333-1334]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Signing the Authorization for Use of Military Force

September 18, 2001

    Today I am signing Senate Joint Resolution 23, the ``Authorization 
for Use of Military Force.''
    On September 11, 2001, terrorists committed treacherous and horrific 
acts of violence against innocent Americans and individuals from other 
countries. Civilized nations and people around the world have expressed 
outrage at, and have unequivocally condemned, these attacks. Those who 
plan, authorize, commit, or aid terrorist attacks against the United 
States and its interests--including those who harbor terrorists--
threaten the national security of the United States. It is, therefore, 
necessary and appropriate that the United States exercise its rights to 
defend itself and protect United States citizens both at home and 
abroad.
    In adopting this resolution in response to the latest terrorist acts 
committed against the United States and the continuing threat to the 
United States and its citizens from terrorist activities, both Houses of 
Congress have acted wisely, decisively, and in the finest traditions of 
our country. I thank the leadership of both Houses for their role in 
expeditiously passing this historic joint resolution. I have had the 
benefit of meaningful consultations with members of the Congress since 
the attacks of September 11, 2001, and

[[Page 1334]]

I will continue to consult closely with them as our Nation responds to 
this threat to our peace and security.
    Senate Joint Resolution 23 recognizes the seriousness of the 
terrorist threat to our Nation and the authority of the President under 
the Constitution to take action to deter and prevent acts of terrorism 
against the United States. In signing this resolution, I maintain the 
longstanding position of the executive branch regarding the President's 
constitutional authority to use force, including the Armed Forces of the 
United States and regarding the constitutionality of the War Powers 
Resolution.
    Our whole Nation is unalterably committed to a direct, forceful, and 
comprehensive response to these terrorist attacks and the scourge of 
terrorism directed against the United States and its interests.
                                                George W. Bush
 The White House,
 September 18, 2001.

Note: S.J. Res. 23, approved September 18, was assigned Public Law No. 
107-40.