" The use of military force against a sovereign nation is an act of war. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution explicitly grants Congress the sole power to declare war. "
- Scott Garrett

Scott Garrett's statement underscores a fundamental principle within the United States Constitution regarding military engagement with other nations. It emphasizes that launching an armed attack on another sovereign country is tantamount to declaring war, which is a serious political and legal matter. According to Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, only Congress has the authority to declare war, reflecting a system designed to ensure deliberation and consensus before engaging in such significant actions.

The deeper significance of Garrett's quote lies in its invocation of constitutional checks and balances, particularly concerning executive power. By highlighting that only Congress can formally initiate war, it draws attention to the intent behind this constitutional safeguard: preventing unilateral military action by the president without proper democratic oversight. This principle is crucial for maintaining accountability in times of conflict and ensuring that decisions regarding war are made with thorough consideration and public debate.

Scott Garrett is a seasoned politician who has served as a U.S. Representative from New Jersey since 2005, bringing to his role extensive experience in legislative matters and policy advocacy. His statement reflects his commitment to upholding constitutional principles and the importance of adhering to democratic processes when it comes to national security decisions.