Senator: Congress must vote on fighting Islamists

WASHINGTON (AP) — An independent member of the U.S. Senate is voicing uneasiness with the Obama administration’s push toward a more fierce confrontation with Islamic militants, while criticizing Congress for doing too little.

Maine’s Sen. Angus King, who organizes with the Democratic caucus, says he’s uncomfortable with the expansion of presidential authority “to take military action anywhere in the world.”

King says he understands political concerns, but argues that’s no reason for Congress not to be heard on the issue. President Barack Obama is set to tell the nation Wednesday night what steps he plans next against Islamic State militants.

King tells CNN he believes Congress ought to step up and vote, saying it’s more inclined to second-guess and criticize. He says the critical issue is preventing creation of safe havens for terrorists.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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