ISIL

DEB RIECHMANN, Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — In the fight against Islamic State militants, members of Congress talk tough against extremism. But many lawmakers want to run for cover when it comes to voting on new war powers — preferring to let the president own the battle.

An Austin, Texas man who planned to travel to Syria and join the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has been sentenced to 82 months in federal prison.

President Barack Obama announced Wednesday that he is seeking Congressional approval for direct U.S. military action to combat ISIS.