U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Administration's Proposed AUMF

“Over two months ago, in December, I called on President Obama to submit for Congressional consideration a proposed Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) specific to the war against ISIL.  This debate is long overdue, and I’m pleased the President has taken this step; however, I believe Congress must ask tough questions and work together to improve the President’s proposal.  I’m concerned that the vague language of the Administration’s draft proposal may leave the door open to putting boots on the ground for combat operations and put the United States at risk of repeating the mistakes of the past and becoming bogged down in an open-ended conflict. I’m also concerned that the draft AUMF would authorize action for 3 years without establishing measurable goals, benchmarks of success and a clear scope  in the battle against ISIL.  To be clear: ISIL is a group of barbaric terrorists, and their extreme tactics display a shocking brutality that must be confronted.  Congress will now have the critical debate that the American public deserves and I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress to improve the Administration’s proposal and ensure that U.S. military and diplomatic efforts remain part of an international coalition combating the threat posed by ISIL.”