OPINION:
President Trump’s critics may be overlooking a central warfare authority for independent executive action: The U.S. Patriot Act
(“Democrats, some Republicans unload on Trump for striking Iran without congressional approval,” Web, June 21). It gives broad, almost unlimited discretion to the executive branch to fight terror.
(“Democrats, some Republicans unload on Trump for striking Iran without congressional approval,” Web, June 21). It gives broad, almost unlimited discretion to the executive branch to fight terror.
As the president made clear, Iran is a terror state and it has engaged in repeated terror acts against the U.S. The destruction of its nuclear program — which would have radically expanded its terror capabilities — is a presidential discretion by such special legal authority. Indeed, one may say that the Patriot Act, with great foresight, was specifically designed for the path President Trump and his team are now pursuing.
As Iran continues to refuse any cooperation, negotiation or surrender and is already retaliating, it is probable that legal critics will soon be silenced. That’s because Congress will likely be obligated under Article I, Section 8, Clause 11 of the Constitution to direct the military to undertake what will likely be a significantly enlarged confrontation.
MATTHEW G. ANDERSSON
Oak Brook, Illinois
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