Washington, D.C. — Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), released the following statement on President Trump’s decision to remove American Forces from Northern Syria:

“This week, the President announced that he will be removing American Military Forces from Northern Syria,” Burgess said. “While I understand the anxiety and concern from my fellow members of Congress, but we must remember that Congress has an obligation here as well. Congress has the responsibility to authorize military action. To date, through two administrations, Congress has yet to authorize any military action in the country of Syria.”

“Congress has the responsibility to provide funding through appropriations process for the Department of Defense. We are into a new fiscal year and Congress has failed at that responsibility as well.”

“The President is acting as commander in chief of the armed forces. If Congress wants a different outcome executed by the President, then we should return to Washington and pass an appropriations bill for the Department of Defense and authorize the use of military force in the country of Syria. It remains our job to provide funding for key military operations in the fight against terrorism. Our brave men and women in uniform deserve our support and a unified strategy. It’s time for Congress to take back responsibility to authorize military operations in the fight against ISIS while continuing to support our allies in the fight.”

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