Durbin Urges DOJ to Rescind War Powers Opinions

Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, has urged Attorney General Merrick Garland to rescind five controversial legal opinions from the Department of Justice regarding presidential war powers. In his letter, Durbin emphasizes the need to clarify the boundaries of military authority, especially as President-elect Trump prepares to take office and has indicated plans for a substantial military deployment for deportations. The opinions in question include assertions that allow unilateral military actions without congressional approval and other interpretations that may infringe upon Congress's prerogatives. Durbin argues that these opinions are inconsistent with constitutional principles and calls for transparency regarding the domestic use of military force. The Justice Department has acknowledged receipt of the letter but has not commented on the requests. This move highlights concerns over the executive branch's interpretation of military powers in light of a potential second Trump administration.