Politics & Government

(UPDATED) John Kline: 'I Cannot Support U.S. Military Strikes in Syria'

Lakeville's representative in Congress had indicated he might back an attack. On Tuesday, he said no.

Updated below. U.S. Rep. John Kline (R-MN) announced his opposition to President Obama's plan for a military attack on Syria Tuesday: 

“For more than two weeks, the President has failed to convey to the American people a clear objective for military intervention in Syria. He continues to offer no persuasive rationale, which is why I cannot support the President’s request at this time for U.S. military strikes in Syria.”
Kline, who sits on the House Armed Services Committee, previously said he appreciated Obama reaching out to Congress on the question. 

See: How Should U.S. Rep. John Kline Vote on Syria Attack?

Obama is set to address the nation on Syria Tuesday evening. 

Update (9:30 p.m. Tuesday): Kline issued further comments in a statement posted on his official website after Obama's televised address to the nation on Syria: 

“For two weeks, the President has failed to convey to the American people a clear objective for military intervention in Syria, which is why earlier today I voiced my opposition to the Administration’s request for military strikes in Syria. The President’s remarks to the nation once again fell short of providing a clear rationale for military intervention.

“Regarding the Russian proposal, while international control of Syria’s chemical weapons is in the world’s best interest, we must explore if it is a credible option.”

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