Why can't they pass an Iraq bill not tied to funding?

[garybeck]

Can't they just pass a bill to end the war, bringing the troops home, timeline or whatever, and leave the money out of it?

Can't they give the money requested but instruct bush to end the war at the same time?

Then Bush can't say the Dems are putting the troops in harms way by not funding them. Even though it's a bogus claim, it gets the spin it needs.

Although I support anything to end the war and bring home our troops, me thinks this funding game is playing into their hands.

I think if they just pass a simple bill that says the war has to be ended within 6 months, and all funds required to protect the troops are included, then we have a checkmate.

[shadowknows69]

1. Power of the purse is really all they can do

n/t

[garybeck]

2. that's what I keep hearing, but what is there to substantiate that?

they were going to do a non-binding resolution that didn't involve money. why can't they do a binding resolution not tied to money?

I've never heard of a rule that says Congress can only pass laws relating to money.

[shadowknows69]

3. As far as war.

I think that's the only recourse. I believe there's supposed to be a war powers act review of the conflict at regular intervals but I haven't seen that being done. We don't declare war in the legal sense anymore apparently. Gives congress too much power.

[garybeck]

4. still seems like they could do something besides cut funding.

if they can declare war, they can end it.

[shadowknows69]

5. I think therein lies the problem

that there was no official declaration. Congress simply voted on a "resoultion" whatever the fuck that means, which gave Bushie free reign for his little war on terror. the war powers act has beem abused badly in my opinion. it needs obvious revisions after this fiasco.

[garybeck]

6. then they could say

the authorization was given.

the authorization was utilized.

Saddam was removed from power.

It's over. Bring them home.

I just dont' see why funding the troops has to be tied to it.