Congressional Committee Debates Drone Policy

Washington D.C. (December 13, 2012) -- The House Judiciary Committee today conducted an overdue discussion about the United States policy of using drones to target and kill American citizens and others overseas. The policy has come under criticism for killing innocent civilians and inciting radicalization. The Committee discussed H. Res. 819, a Resolution of Inquiry which would compel the Administration to provide the legal basis for the strikes. The resolution was introduced with bipartisan support by Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH).

"Despite the committee's decision to report the resolution unfavorably, the committee engaged in a timely and important debate on the use of drones abroad and the violation of the constitutional rights of U.S. citizens that are targeted abroad," said Kucinich.

The Judiciary Committee discussed the importance of pushing the Administration for more answers on its combat drone policy prior to voting to report the resolution unfavorably.

"Our policies create a dangerous legal precedent that other nations will emulate. As the combat drone program continues to be expanded, it is critical that Congress weigh in," said Kucinich. "Today, Congress demonstrated that our foreign policy will not be conducted absent congressional review."