Cole Launches Libya Inquiry

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Tom Cole (OK-04) today introduced legislation requiring the Obama administration to release any State and Defense department documents pertaining to consultation with Congress prior to committing U.S. forces to intervene in Libya. Examining the documents will allow members of Congress to determine if the Obama administration complied with its requirements under the Constitution and War Powers Resolution to consult with the legislative branch before sending troops into combat operations.

Cole serves on the Defense and the Foreign Operations panels of the Appropriations Committee.

"Serious questions remain about the nature of the mission in Libya and whether the Obama administration's decision to intervene is constitutional. Our military is already severely strained by two wars, and now President Obama has ordered troops into a third conflict without obtaining congressional authorization or consultation as required by law.

"As much as we may wish to protect innocent lives and support freedom around the world, we should not be committing U.S. troops without careful deliberation. This bill will ensure Congress has the necessary information to exercise its constitutional authority."