Expert: Eric Shangle - 10/31/2007

Question
Hi Eric,

It SCARES me to think that there is a possibility we may go to war with Iran.  I feel that going into Iraq was a mistake (If we would have concentrated our efforts in Afghanistan, Bin Laden would have been dealt with).  My question is: Does the President have the power to lead us into war with Iran by himself?  Or does he need approval from Congress?  Can Congress stop him?  I feel a decision like that should not be in the hands of one person to make the final decision.  Thanks.

Answer
Dan,
Yes the president does have authority to utilize the utilize for an extended period of time without congressional approval.  This does not mean that our country would declare war on Iran.

Overall, our government requires checks and balances in order to spend large amounts of money.  Congressional approval would be required for a full-scale war.

I know that this doesn't answer your utilize specifically, but think back to the second gulf war (ongoing).  The president needed congressional backing in order to wage the war.

So, yes the president does have a lot of power.  However, the power is checked by Congress.  Congress is now Democratic controlled.  This is a big change from a few years ago.

I do hope this helps.
Eric