Young Statement on Caribbean War Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) released the following statement regarding tonight's Senate vote on the Caribbean War Powers Resolution:

"This so-called Caribbean war powers resolution, as currently written, extends beyond the Caribbean and could potentially prohibit the use of force against radical Islamist terrorist groups in the Middle East. Those issues are not under debate right now, and I cannot support a resolution that potentially handcuffs our ability to protect American service members in the Middle East.

"Despite my opposition to this resolution, I am highly concerned about the legality of recent strikes in the Caribbean and the trajectory of military operations without congressional approval or debate and the support of the American people. While the Constitution grants Article II authorities to the executive branch to defend against imminent threats, Congress alone is entrusted with decisions of war and peace.

"We also must think through potential side effects if these actions are prolonged, such as the diversion of resources from the most important threat of our time, the People's Republic of China. Others have noted that, if one thinks of the 'War on Drugs' as a real war, it could conceivably lead to an increasingly militarized 'War on Drugs' inside the United States. The American people, through their representatives, deserve more information about the threats we face in the region and the role of America's military going forward.

"Secretaries Hegseth and Rubio have committed to meeting with me to discuss these concerns in the coming days. Additionally, I have requested a hearing be held on this situation by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The Administration should adhere to the Constitution and keep the people's representatives informed on this critical national security issue."