“The President’s sudden decision to attack Syria is a dangerous abuse of his constitutional authority.

"The atrocities committed by the Assad regime are appalling and require a measured response, but that response must be part of a larger strategy, and approved by Congress. The Constitution and the War Powers Resolution require congressional authorization for the use of military force, and claims that action in Syria would be justified by the post-9/11 Authorization simply are not valid.

"Instead of presenting a strategy calculated to achieve goals in the national interest or even humanitarian objectives, however, the President has telegraphed indecision and instability to our allies and enemies alike. He steadfastly refused to honor American commitments to take in Syrian refugees, suspended humanitarian aid to Syria, and signaled his intention to withdraw US forces from the country less than two weeks ago.

"I fervently hope for the safety of our courageous men and women in uniform. Putting them in harm’s way should always be the result of steady, determined leadership, but our President seems to have done it in on a whim. This is a frightening moment for our country.”