CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE VOTES TO TERMINATE PRESIDENT TRUMP’S UNLAWFUL DECLARATION OF A NATIONAL EMERGENCY

Today, Congressman Joe Morelle joined colleagues in the House in passing a privileged resolution to terminate President Trump's unlawful and dangerous emergency declaration to fund a wall along the nation's Southern border.

"President Trump's emergency declaration is not only a gross abuse of power but a violation of our nation's constitution that subverts the will of the American people and his coequal partners in government," said Rep. Morelle. "Furthermore, it robs billions from existing national security imperatives, threatening the safety of our country. I am proud to join my colleagues in taking action to uphold the constitution and protect the fundamental system of checks and balances our nation was built upon."

Article I of the United States Constitution grants Congress the power of the purse. However, President Trump's emergency declaration has infringed on that right and would allow him to spend without Congressional approval. This maneuver would seize funding from essential Department of Defense initiatives, including jeopardizing more than $200 Million in high-priority construction projects in New York State alone.

The resolution passed by the House terminates the emergency declaration under the authority provided by the National Emergencies Act (NEA) and defends the separation of powers outlined in the Constitution.

"We must safeguard the American people from the President's reckless impulses that threaten the security of our country," continued Rep. Morelle. "I urge the Senate to join us in upholding their oath to protect and uphold our Constitution by passing this resolution."

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