The whole notion that the President can unilaterally enter into unprovoked hostilities without first consulting Congress and receiving at a minimum legislative authorization is arguably false.  The National War Powers Act of 1973, oft cited as granting the President such powers, offers no such relief. As stipulated by the Act, at least one of three conditions must be met prior to the President sending armed forces into ongoing hostilities or into situations where hostilities are likely to occur.(1) a declaration of war(2) specific statutory authorizationOr(3) a national emergency created by attack upon the United States, its territories or possessions, or its armed forces.None of these three conditions were met before the President attacked Libya.  In fact, there are serious concerns whether President Obama even bothered to consult congressional leaders before making his announcement to commence strikes against Libyan forces.But even if Obama had met with legislative members...(Read Full Post)