Federal Government

Virginia lawmakers are coming around President Obama’s plan to combat the Islamic State, even as they say they want to have a say in what could become an extended war. 

Virginia Republican Congressman Morgan Griffith and many Democrats say the president needs to come to Congress for approval of any sustained military action.

“Clearly there’s a new front here and if he’s going into Syria on anything other than a quick strike, he’s got to have the approval of the United States Congress.”

Ahead of President Obama’s national address tonight, Virginia Democratic Senator Tim Kaine is urging the White House to come to Congress before extending its bombing campaign against the Islamic State.

The U-S House passed a resolution condemning President Obama for swapping prisoners to secure the release of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl. The bill was sponsored by a Virginia Republican Congressman. 

Lawmakers of all stripes were surprised to learn five members of the Taliban were exchanged for Sergeant Bergdahl. Lawmakers weren’t alerted even though Congress passed a law requiring thirty days notice before the release of prisoners from Guantanamo Bay. Congressman Rigell says that’s why the House voted to disapprove of the exchange.  

Watchdog groups say Virginia lawmakers are blurring the line between their campaigns and official duties as representatives.

To see what lawmakers send voters with your tax dollars you have to go to the basement of a House office building. Photos are banned. Only black and white copies leave the sparse room. The privilege of elected office is dubbed franked mail – even though lawmakers now use it to buy Facebook, Twitter and Google ads. Lawmakers are alerted each time a reporter, researcher or political opponent asks to see what they’ve sent voters.

The press releases were flying Tuesday as two North Carolina companies announced they would work with Dominion Power to build a 550-mile gas pipeline through Virginia.  Governor Terry McAuliffe called a news conference to express his support for the project, and environmentalists expressed dismay.