Does Declaring War Matter Anymore?

[CommonSense]

Hey All,

The United States has not formally declared war on another country since fighting the Axis powers in World War II.

You'd never know it.

Now as most of you know I definitely call myself a Conservative when it comes to American politics. But over the past several years I have developed a Libertarian streak that makes sense to me. While developing this "streak" I have of course began to listen more to like minded politicians like Ron and Rand Paul. They both mention how according to our Constitution, we should not go to war unless congress formally declares war on that country. This makes sense to me. My question for you all is do you believe it matters as well? After September 11, should Congress have voted to formally declare war on Afghanistan when we invaded? Should the same have been done to Iraq in 2003? Libya? This isn't a challenge or rhetorical question at all because I still consider myself a bit on the fence and part of the reason I ask is so I can learn details I do not know.

[Sailor]

By and large, yes, I think a Declaration of War is the appropriate course. However,unless I am very much mistaken a congressional Authorization to Use Military Force such as those Dubya obtained in Iraq and earlier in Afghanistan can be considered Declarations of War in all but name since they amount to much the same thing.

Using military force unilaterally in situations where American lives or vital interests are at stake and there is insufficient time to obtain authorization from Congress is one thing and is appropriate under the President's authority as Commander in Chief according to the Constitution. Using military force unilaterally against another country that is no threat (Libya) is another IMO.

[101ABN]

"They both mention how according to our Constitution, we should not go to war unless congress formally declares war on that country."

Except that isn't exactly what the Constitution says.

Congress has the power to declare war but that is not the only way to engage in a conflict.

Ron Paul is an idiot whose foreign policy is indistinguishable from Code Pink's. His brand of isolationism went obsolete at 0745 hrs on 12/07/1941.