Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=10-11-02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=CONGRESS IRAQ (L-2ND UPDATE)

NUMBER=2-295126

BYLINE=DEBORAH TATE

DATELINE=CAPITOL HILL

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: The Democrat-led U-S Senate is moving closer to approving a resolution authorizing President Bush to use military action against Iraq. The Republican-led House passed the measure earlier Thursday. Correspondent Deborah Tate reports from Capitol Hill.

TEXT: The House passed the resolution on a 296 to 133 vote, endorsing President Bush's stand that he will work with the United Nations if possible or unilaterally if necessary to disarm Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein of his weapons of mass destruction.

Supporters, including Democratic Congressman Tom Lantos of California, argued that the strong Congressional backing of the resolution would help the United States win international support for the effort to disarm Iraq.

/// LANTOS ACTUALITY ///

Our joint resolution will demonstrate to the world our steadfast resolve. It will convince others that joining us is the best hope for securing peace. If we show the courage to lead, others will follow.

/// END ACT ///

But many other Democrats remain opposed the resolution, saying it gives the President too much power.

Senator Robert Byrd of West Virginia:

/// BYRD ACTUALITY ///

Our duty is not to give this President or any President a blank check to enforce his foreign policy doctrine, but to exercise our legislative power to protect the national security interests of this republic. Our constitutional system was designed to prevent the executive from plunging the nation into war in the name of contrived ideals and political ambitions.

/// END ACT ///

But Mr. Byrd acknowledged defeat, after his attempts to delay a vote on the resolution were rejected. Other efforts to narrow the scope of the measure were also defeated.

President Bush, after the House vote and anticipating Senate approval, told reporters "the days of Iraq acting as an outlaw state are coming to an end." (signed)

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