From: Mike Lorrey (mlorrey@datamann.com)
Date: Thu Sep 20 2001 - 13:17:22 MDT
Samantha Atkins wrote:
>
> I am a little confused on what seems to be so basic a point that
> it is embarrassing to still be confused about it. Yet I don't
> sse much in the coverage of this crisis or most discussion on it
> that resolves my confusion so I'll just have to ask.
>
> Has the US actually made a formal declaration of war? Is such
> necessary for us to actually be "in a state of war" and most
> importantly, for wartime rules and powers to apply? If such a
> declaration is necessary and if it has not been made then why does
> anyone take seriously the claim of wartime powers and special privileges?
> If such a formal declaration is needed does it need to be against some
> nation or other?
According to congressional sources, they seem to be of the opinion that
we need to know who it is we are fighting before we declare a war.
Giving the president carte blanche to declare war on anyone in their
place is a bit beyond the ability of congress to delegate. The current
declaration of congress that the president can take action against
anyone he determines to be bihind this and supporting this attack is
apparently about as far as they want to go at the moment.
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