FYI-- Sen. Webb's letter to the White House regarding "binding agreements"

FYI-- Senator Webb today sent the following letter to President Obama with respect to committing the United States to "binding" international agreements without ratification of the Senate.
 
The letter reinforces his strong belief in restoring and maintaining the proper balance of power between the Presidency and the Congress.

As you will recall, Senator Webb advanced similar arguments, concerning congressional engagement and approval, in August 2008 during the Bush Administration's negotiation of the Iraq Security Agreements.  At that time, he said: "Any national commitment of such magnitude and length must be subject to the approval of Congress." (For reference, visit: http://webb.senate.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/2008-08-01-02.cfm)
 
The letter follows.
 

November 25, 2009


The President
The White House
Washington, DC  20500

 

Dear Mr. President:


            I would like to express my concern regarding reports that the Administration may believe it has the unilateral power to commit the government of the United States to certain standards that may be agreed upon at the upcoming United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of Parties 15 in Copenhagen, Denmark.  The phrase “politically binding” has been used.

            Although details have not been made available, recent statements by Special Envoy on Climate Change Todd Stern indicate that negotiators may be intending to commit the United States to a nationwide emission reduction program.  As you well know from your time in the Senate, only specific legislation agreed upon in the Congress, or a treaty ratified by the Senate, could actually create such a commitment on behalf of our country. 

            I would very much appreciate having this matter clarified in advance of the Copenhagen meetings.


                                                                        Sincerely,


 

                                                                        Jim Webb

                                                                        United States Senator