James Fallows provides a skeptic’s perspective to the military engagement in Libya.  I agree with him that it would’ve been useful to have had a more thorough public debate.  But I disagree with him (and Dennis Kucinich) that it’s wrong that President Obama acted without explicit Congressional approval.  Per the War Powers Resolution, the President can commit troops for up to 60 days before he legally needs an Authorization of the Use of Military Force from Congress.

Also, in modern times Congress’ constitutional power to declare war is mostly a superficial power considering most of our military engagements are fought against non-state actors.  Congress’ real power stems from their ability to refuse to fund certain military actions.  They could do that today if they wanted to.  Congress’ non-action signals an implicit approval of the President’s actions.