Rokita Report 8-30-13 - Brief Briefing on Syria

Many of you have expressed your concern regarding recent events in Syria. I share those concerns and wanted to share a few brief thoughts and clarify some information as it relates to this very fluid situation.

As you may know, an ongoing internal civil conflict is underway in Syria. External forces, like Iran and Al-Qaeda, are likely involved in this conflict as well. Recently, there have been reports of the use of chemical weapons in Syria. The President has indicated that this is a "red line" without failing to lay out the consequences for violating that red line.

Based on the information we have today, I do not believe we should get involved in Syria because it is a civil war and neither party in the struggle are good option to support. Our involvement in Syria could possibly trigger additional actions in the region between other volatile countries. The potential for even more bloodshed is quite possible.

Regarding potential action by the President, he War Powers Act gives the President the authority to engage in hostilities without the approval of Congress for up to 60 days, if there is an imminent threat to the U.S. I believe the President must receive authorization from Congress given that Syria poses no immediate threat to us. I will continue to monitor the events in Syria and actions by the White House in response.

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