Barr: "I Remain Firmly Opposed to Authorizing the Use of Force in Syria."

Statement

After careful and continued consideration of the President's arguments in favor of military intervention in Syria, including a searching review of the intelligence presented by the White House national security team and a good faith assessment of the Administration's military strategy, I remain firmly opposed to authorizing the use of force in Syria.

I am not at all convinced that the Administration's specific plan would advance the national security of the United States. In fact, the President's plan would likely increase, not decrease, the threat to our national security.

I am troubled by the Administration's hesitant and contradictory approach, advocating a "limited" yet "consequential" attack, and specifically disclaiming military victory as a strategic objective.

I am discouraged by the President's indecision and vacillation, first announcing to our potential enemy his intent to commit the United States to military action, then seeking congressional authorization and now imploring Congress to postpone a vote.

I am concerned that the Administration's strategy fails to prepare for contingencies or prevent chemicals weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists who pose a threat much greater than the Assad regime.

Finally, and most importantly, I take seriously the strongly expressed opinions of my constituents, who are overwhelmingly opposed to military action in Syria and are justifiably skeptical that the President's ill-defined plan for a half-hearted military strike would make the American people more safe.
The President's indecision and vacillation on Syria underscores the fact that he does not have a coherent foreign policy approach to the Middle East and reinforces my opposition to authorizing the use of force in Syria. If the President once again shifts course and returns to the idea of asking Congress to vote, I will vote "no."

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