Democrats Ask Biden To Surrender Keys On Nuclear LaunchesJordan Lancaster
Reporter
February 24, 2021 12:12 PM ET
House Democrats have asked President Joe Biden to give other officials the authority to launch nuclear weapons, an action which he currently has sole authority to do.
California Rep. Jimmy Panetta spearheaded the Monday letter, which was signed by nearly three dozen House Democrats, Politico reported.
“Vesting one person with this authority entails real risks,†the letter reads. “Past presidents have threatened to attack other countries with nuclear weapons or exhibited behavior that caused other officials to express concern about the president’s judgment.â€
“While any president would presumably consult with advisors before ordering a nuclear attack, there is no requirement to do so,†the letter says according to the report. “The military is obligated to carry out the order if they assess it is legal under the laws of war. Under the current posture of U.S. nuclear forces, that attack would happen in minutes.â€
The letter suggests alternative plans, such as requiring the president to get approval for a launch order from other officials in the line of succession. This includes the vice president and the Speaker of the House, “neither of whom can be removed by the president if they disagree.â€
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https://dailycaller.com/2021/02/24/democrats-joe-biden-surrender-keys-nuclear-launches/