Ken says that the idea for this letter was sparked in his mind when he attended the event in Santa Fe earlier this month where I was one of two speakers discussing what it might take for us Americans to repair the damage being done to our country during this era of the Bush regime. It was when he overheard me, during a break, making a comment about why I think it strategically better to confront the Bushites on the Iranian issue on the CONSTITUTIONAL dimension rather than on the NATIONAL SECURITY dimension.
I think Ken's move here is an excellent one, and I'm honored to have played a role in stimulating its birth. And it is in honor of that very phenomenon --the way one person's idea can evoke another good idea in someone else-- that I present Ken's letter here. I invite all who behold Ken's well-executed move --with its basic creative idea, and its polite but tough application of political pressure-- to consider what moves may be available to them to make.
Finally, here are a few bits of relevant background information: the "Mike" to whom the letter is addressed is Rep. Udall's legislative director; Ken has had previous contact with Mike; and Udall's house seat is relatively invulnerable.
<em>Ken Mayers' Letter</em>
Hi Mike,
I have a simple question -- perhaps a challenge -- for your boss. Since I know he can't plow through all his correspondence, I believe that routing this through his legislative director makes sense.
I challenge him to introduce a house resolution stating that an attack on Iran without prior explicit authorization from Congress will trigger an immediate initiation of impeachment proceedings by the House of Representatives.
There can be no excuse for NOT introducing such legislation. There can be little doubt that the 75% of Northern New Mexicans who voted for Tom in the last election would approve of it. Since it would be a house resolution only, a senate minority could not block it. Since it is not legislation, the President could not veto it. And even if no Republican would support
it, the Democratic majority could still pass it -- AND enforce it.
You will notice that I have copied a couple of lists on my e-mail. About 200 of Congressman Udall's constituents in Northern New Mexico will get copies at the same time you do. They will all be waiting for a prompt response. I also plan to send it to the <em>Santa Fe New Mexican</em> and the <em>Journal North</em>. They may or may not publish it. The congressman can demonstrate to these constituents that he is ready to walk the walk.
I look forward to your early response.
Respectfully,
Kenneth E. Mayers
Major USMCR (Ret'd)
