The Senate resolution endorsing United States participation in the NATObombing of Yugoslavia again shows the success of the War Powers Resolution inhaving both Congress and the president involved before troops are used inmilitary conflicts.
Adopted in 1973 over President Nixon’s veto, the War Powers Resolution hasrepeatedly achieved its drafters’ goal of ensuring Congressional participationin war-making decisions. Before the Gulf War in 1991, Congress passed aresolution approving America’s use of troops against Iraq. Likewise, theSenate’s decision by a 58-41 vote, on March 23, to endorse Americanparticipation against Serbian forces reflects the resolution’s objective ofhaving Congress involved, when possible, before military action.
