Skip to main content

Senator Tim Kaine discusses war powers during a Public Square forum


Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) spoke during a Richmond Times Dispatch Public Square forum on Tuesday of this week where he addressed several issues: specifically how, when, and where America's military power is called into action.

Kaine admitted he is not an expert on the subject, telling the crowd he "is a lay person" who happens to be "passionate" about the matter (since 2002) who wanted to address the law surrounding it, its history, the current problem , and "the fix".

Congress has the power to declare war, while a U.S. president must consult with Congress before deploying U.S. military into hostile territories.

"The issue", explains Kaine, "is the role of the president and Congress in doing what is the hardest thing, which is to initiate military action."

Recently, in September, President Obama signed two letters advising Congress with regard to beginning military 'discrete' military operations in both Syria and Iraq.

The Public Square session, the 52nd of its installments, concluded with an audience Q&A with the senator.  The event was moderated by Tom Silvestri, president and publisher of the Richmond Times Dispatch.



Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Story Behind Presidents' Day

Did you know Presidents' Day isn’t just about a day off?  Originally established to honor George Washington’s birthday, it has since grown to celebrate all U.S. presidents who’ve shaped the country’s path. It’s a day to reflect on leadership, service, and the values that drive national progress. Presidents' Day dates back to 1879, when it was first recognized as a federal holiday for Washington. Later, Abraham Lincoln’s February birthday brought attention. By 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act combined the days, creating the long weekend many know today—but its purpose goes far deeper. From decisions that forged independence to policies steering modern challenges, U.S. presidents have helped shape history. It's a moment to appreciate lessons in courage, responsibility, and the impact of strong leadership on society today. How do you celebrate Presidents' Day?  Is it by learning about the leaders who influenced American history? Do you read their biographies, visit ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Gary Locke Nominated as Ambassador to China

Gary Locke, former White House Secretary of Commerce, has been nominated by the President as U.S. ambassador to China. Locke replaces former Utah governor  Jon Huntsman, who has stepped down to (wait for it) possibly challenge President Obama in the 2012 presidential race. Locke was the first Chinese-American governor and should the Senate approve his nomination, would the be first Chinese-American ambassador to China.  He is a partner in the Seattle office of the law firm Davis Wright Tremaine which lists China as one of its specialties. "Gary has distinguished himself as one of our nation’s most respected and admired public servants.  As our country’s first Chinese-American governor, he worked tirelessly to attract jobs and businesses to Washington State, and he doubled exports to China", said President Obama during this morning's announcement. "He’s been a point person for my National Export Initiative, and last year, Gary’s depa...
Post a Comment
Read more