Iraq war vet in Congress opposes Syria strike
BY DONNA CASSATA | The Associated Press September 9, 2013 9:28AM
Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said Monday she cannot support any resolution authorizing the use of military force in Syria. The Hawaii lawmaker said the Mideast nation does not pose a security threat to the U.S. | AP file photo
Updated: September 9, 2013 11:02AM
WASHINGTON — One of two female Iraq war veterans in Congress is opposing President Barack Obama’s call for military strikes against Syria.
Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said Monday that she cannot support any resolution authorizing the use of military force. The Hawaii lawmaker said the Mideast nation does not pose a security threat to the U.S. and it would be a mistake for Americans to get involved in a sectarian civil war.
Democratic Rep. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, who was wounded in Iraq, remains undecided about Obama’s request though she has expressed serious reservations about military action.
Gabbard’s opposition underscores the difficulty facing the Obama administration faces as it tries to rally support on Capitol Hill. The president is struggling to gain support with members of his own party.
