[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
[January 14, 1991]
[Page 40]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on Signing the Resolution Authorizing the Use of Military 
Force Against Iraq
January 14, 1991

    Today I am signing H.J. Res. 77, the ``Authorization for Use of
Military Force Against Iraq Resolution.'' By passing H.J. Res. 77, the 
Congress of the United States has expressed its approval of the use of 
U.S. Armed Forces consistent with U.N. Security Council Resolution 678. 
I asked the Congress to support implementation of U.N. Security Council 
Resolution 678 because such action would send the clearest possible 
message to Saddam Hussein that he must withdraw from Kuwait without 
condition or delay. I am grateful to those of both political parties who 
joined in the expression of resolve embodied in this resolution. To all, 
I emphasize again my conviction that this resolution provides the best 
hope for peace.
    The debate on H.J. Res. 77 reflects the profound strength of our 
constitutional democracy. In coming to grips with the issues at stake in 
the Gulf, both Houses of Congress acted in the finest traditions of our 
country. This resolution provides unmistakable support for the 
international community's determination that Iraq's ongoing aggression 
against, and occupation of, Kuwait shall not stand. As I made clear to 
congressional leaders at the outset, my request for congressional 
support did not, and my signing this resolution does not, constitute any 
change in the long-standing positions of the executive branch on either 
the President's constitutional authority to use the Armed Forces to 
defend vital U.S. interests or the constitutionality of the War Powers 
Resolution. I am pleased, however, that differences on these issues 
between the President and many in the Congress have not prevented us 
from uniting in a common objective. I have had the benefit of extensive 
and meaningful consultations with the Congress throughout this crisis, 
and I shall continue to consult closely with the Congress in the days 
ahead.

                                                             George Bush

The White House,
January 14, 1991.

                    Note: H.J. Res. 77, approved January 14, was 
                        assigned Public Law No. 102-1.