War Powers Resolution
Definition
A U.S. federal law enacted in 1973 over President Nixon's veto, formally known as the War Powers Resolution, which limits the president's authority to commit U.S. armed forces to hostilities without congressional approval.
It requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of introducing forces into hostilities and withdraw them within 60 days (extendable to 90) unless Congress authorizes continued action via declaration of war or specific statute.
Examples
The War Powers Resolution was Congress's polite way of saying, 'Hey, Mr. President, wars aren't a solo Netflix binge.'
Presidents treat the War Powers Resolution like a gym membership: they sign up enthusiastically, then ghost it when adventure calls.
Invoking the War Powers Resolution in a briefing is like pulling out the Constitution at a family dinner—everyone nods, but no one changes the channel.
The War Powers Resolution sits in the drawer next to the 'Do Not Deploy Without Asking' sticky note that every commander-in-chief ignores.