Williamsburg Torch Club 

Members and guests attending the October dinner of the Torch Club of Williamsburg were treated to a presentation by member Bob Spitzer titled “Is the President’s War Power a Fiction?” Bob, who has written four books on the US presidency, discussed on the role of the Congress versus president under Article II of the US Constitution, as well as the War Powers Resolution of 1973 that set new criteria for the president so as to retain the powers of Congress. Bob noted that the role of the Commander in Chief was not a controversial topic during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in the way it is today.

Bob’s talk covered the various wars in US history, including the five that were officially declared wars by the Congress (War of 1812, the Mexican‑American War, the Spanish‑American War, World War I, and World War II), as well as the other various authorizations and interventions by Congress over the years (e.g., Tripoli, Colombia, etc.) up to today’s ongoing war in Iran. It was a helpful illustration of the ongoing tug-of-war between the two branches that has continued to the present day with the White House often creatively adhering to the War Powers Resolution while still trying to hold onto its ability to intervene around the world as it sees fit.

It was a lively presentation filled with quotes from the Founding Fathers and helpful examples from history. Bob’s talk was followed by plenty of questions from the members and guests, which took us right to the end of another fun evening.

The November dinner presentation will be given by member John Delano, who will discuss “The Triple-train Wreck on March 27, 1953: A Personal Account.” Given the recent double-train accident in Spain, this is another timely story that members will want to experience through John’s eyes. John has spoken on a variety of fascinating topics at the club over the years, yet this personal account is sure to be even more riveting.

You can visit the link for upcoming presentations to learn more. Please contact us if you are interested in being part of the new season.

Note: A noted, Bob is the author of 17 books, including 4 on the presidency. His latest book is titled “Gun Law History: How Three-Hundred Years of Weapons Laws Built the Nation.” If you use promotion code AUFLY30, you will receive a 30 percent discount on the price of this book at the Oxford Press web site (see book link above).