Louisiana Delegation Weighs In On ISIL Plan

New Orleans Congressman and member of the U.S. Homeland Security committee, Cedric Richmond, says President Barack Obama has laid out a good, comprehensive strategy in calling for increased airstrikes against Islamic State extremists.

"We have an obligation to protect American citizens wherever they are, but to truly root out ISIL — it's going to take a united effort," Richmond said.

Richmond and Lafayette Congressman Charles Boustany both say they're glad the President has formed a broad international coalition to combat this terrorist threat.

Richmond adds Congress can support the president's effort by providing resources and weaponry to the Iraqi military and Syrian rebels who are fighting the Islamic State militants.

But Minden Representative John Fleming says he does not support that.

"The president’s vague proposal to arm so-called moderates in Syria leaves more questions than answers, not the least of which is who are these people and what side are they on?" Fleming questioned. Congress needs to thoroughly debate what the president has put forward, but at this point I don’t see a strategy from the president that actually destroys ISIS, which should be our mission if we are committing American troops and resources."

House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Metairie says he's not ready to support the president's strategy. Scalise says he wants to talk with fellow republicans about the best plan of action to address this serious terrorist threat.