Category: Congress

This article was originally published on The Strategy Bridge on February 15, 2015.  Thank you to The Strategy Bridge for continuing to publish my work! The debate regarding an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) is in the forefront of the media this week. Since … Continue reading Fighting the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant / My Take: Authorization for Use of Military Force →

In his September 10, 2014 address explaining the U.S. strategy against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), President Obama spoke to airstrikes, support to the Iraqi military and the Syrian opposition, counterterrorism activities, and humanitarian assistance[i].  Since the President's address, there has been debate whether this strategy should include "boots on the … Continue reading Boots on the Ground: Shorthand or Subterfuge? →

This article was originally published on Lawfare, by The Lawfare Institute, in cooperation with Brookings, on November 25, 2014.  To view this article on Lawfare click HERE.  I want to personally and publicly thank Benjamin Wittes and Bobby Chesney for their encouragement and editing of my work.  It is a great honor to have my ideas featured on Lawfare.   … Continue reading Risking Money and Risking Lives: Disproportionate Congressional Oversight →

You are a veteran member of an organization within the Executive Branch. You have risen up through the ranks and now rather than executing your organization's activities your focus is policy, planning, programming, budget, execution, oversight, and authorities. You are in a new world. You will likely receive little or no preparatory training and the … Continue reading Congressional Rules of Engagement →