Repealing the 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force

Last Updated: June 28, 2021

In October 2002, Congress passed the 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF), which effectively began U.S. involvement in the long, costly, and deadly war in Iraq. Almost two decades later, the 2002 AUMF still remains in effect. Presidents have used the 2002 AUMF as a legal basis for military efforts far beyond the original Iraq War. Its repeal would be a vital move toward narrowing broad military authorities Congress has ceded to the President. The House has now voted multiple times to repeal the 2002 AUMF, and it is reviewing additional AUMFs as well.