Obama says bombing without congressional consent is illegal

[thundley4]

Q. In what circumstances, if any, would the president have constitutional authority to bomb Iran without seeking a use-of-force authorization from Congress? (Specifically, what about the strategic bombing of suspected nuclear sites -- a situation that does not involve stopping an IMMINENT threat?)

OBAMA:  The President does not have power under the Constitution to unilaterally authorize a military attack in a situation that does not involve stopping an actual or imminent threat to the nation.

As Commander-in-Chief, the President does have a duty to protect and defend the United States. In instances of self-defense, the President would be within his constitutional authority to act before advising Congress or seeking its consent. 

http://www.salon.com/news/opinion/glenn_greenwald/2011/03/18/libya/index.html

[Chris_]

MARCH 19, 2011
OBAMA: 'Today we are part of a broad coalition. We are answering the calls of a threatened people. And we are acting in the interests of the United States and the world'...

MARCH 19, 2003
BUSH: 'American and coalition forces are in the early stages of military operations to disarm Iraq, to free its people and to defend the world from grave danger'...

From the Drudge Report.

[docstew]

So, when does the frogmarch begin? By his own definition, he's committing an illegal act, which shows intent, and as POTUS he has the legal opportunity to commit this crime. Missiles have been launched, which is the final element of criminality of executing the intent. The trials at the Hague will be short, my friends...   

[NHSparky]

Oh, SNAP!  Dat's gonna leave a mark.