McConnell backs Obama's decision to ask for Congress' support

US Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said on Saturday that President Barack Obama’s role as commander in chief is strengthened by his asking Congress for support before taking action on Syria.

McConnell's comment followed a White House press conference in which Obama said that while he had the authority to carry out military action without congressional backing, he believed debate should be held. Obama said he would ask Congress to consider US national security interests in casting their vote. (Reuters)