Senator Durbin Urges DOJ to Revoke Expansive Presidential War Powers

The Democratic senator calls for rescinding legal opinions granting unilateral military authority as Trump prepares to re-enter the White House.

Senator Dick Durbin, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has formally requested the Department of Justice to rescind five Office of Legal Counsel opinions that expand presidential war powers.
The opinions in question include guidance allowing unilateral military actions without congressional approval and controversial interpretations of treaty withdrawal requirements.
Durbin emphasized the need for transparency, urging the DOJ to release 20 records detailing presidential authority over domestic military deployments and their permissible activities.
The call for action follows President-elect Donald Trump's statements suggesting potential military use for mass deportations and territorial acquisitions, raising global concerns.
Durbin's letter highlights the constitutional separation of powers and asserts that unchecked executive authority could undermine democratic safeguards.