How has Congress’s willingness and ability to declare war evolved since World War II? Why would Congress be more inclined to support “wars of necessity” over “wars of choice”? Provide examples when appropriate.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answers should cite how the United States has not declared war since WWII, but presidents continue to deploy military forces abroad quite frequently. Answers should also identify how Congress has attempted at times to restrict these deployments (for example, by passing the War Powers Resolution of 1973). Answers should also identify how congressional members must weigh the political consequences of not supporting military deployments (such as being viewed by constituents as “unpatriotic”). Thus, Congress has been more willing in the post–Cold War era to support engagements wherein there is a threat (or perception of a threat) to vital U.S. interests—or “wars of necessity.” However, they are more restrained in approving “wars of choice” that do not threaten vital interests, thus forcing the president to seek legal authority elsewhere (such as a UN Security Council resolution). Examples may include the Gulf War, 9/11, and the Iraq War (wars of necessity), as well as Somalia, Bosnia (Balkans), Kosovo, and Libya (wars of choice).