The topic of Syria has been on the minds of many Iowans over the past several days.
As you know, President Obama requested Congress to authorize military action by the United States. An overwhelming number of you have expressed your opposition to this request through e-mails, letters and phone calls to me and other members of congress. I also am pleased to report that the voices of many Iowans were active and heard on this and other issues at 15 town meetings/forums I held in August and early September.
Ever since the President started putting the wheels in motion that were leading our nation into military action against Syria, I had agreed with the overwhelming majority of Iowans and Americans in believing that the President had not made the case to justify such action. However, out of respect for the President and the larger interests of our national security, I withheld a final decision on the matter so that I could have the benefit of fully reviewing all the facts. That included waiting to make a final decision until I could receive the classified briefing provided to members of congress by the President’s team. I had the opportunity to see that briefing late yesterday.
I wanted to update you on the fact that I have seen no information – classified or unclassified – that provides me with justification strong enough to support the military action proposed. And so, my decision is very firm – I will not support any military action by the United States in Syria.
This would be an act of war. I do not believe that we should be injecting the United States into a civil war, which is a sectarian war, with no clear case on why this is vital to the security of the United States or our allies.
This process has confirmed the worst fears of many Americans and allies – that the United States currently has no compass directing foreign policy. And, this current situation threatens our nation’s credibility and leadership role in the world. I strongly believe that military action by our nation would only further damage that credibility and risk quickly igniting a regional – or larger – conflict that can be avoided.
I will continue to provide you with updates on this debate in Washington as they develop. Please also continue to feel free to make your voice heard on Syria and the many other important issues facing our great nation through the contact form on my web page (http://latham.house.gov/contact/) or via the other methods listed on my website.
As I have often said – as your voice and vote in the U.S. House of Representatives it is important for me to understand the concerns and opinions of you, your family, and your neighbors.
