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Obama Hands Down 9/11 Bill Veto As Expected

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As expected, President Obama has vetoed a bill on Friday that would give families of the 9/11 terrorist attacks the ability to sue Saudi Arabia. Democrats and Republicans vowed decisively to remain in session next week to override the decision.

Family members of those murdered during the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks want to sue the Saudi government for having a hand in the attack. But Obama contends that would invite a host of severe consequences for the United States.

The legislation "does not enhance the safety of Americans from terrorist attacks, and undermines core U.S. interests," Obama said.

Despite expressing "deep sympathy"  for the families of the victims, Obama says the legislation could leave American troops and diplomats vulnerable to lawsuits in foreign courts from people seeking redress for actions taken by armed groups backed or trained by the United States, the Washington Times reports.

"It's disappointing the president chose to veto legislation unanimously passed by Congress and overwhelmingly supported by the American people," Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, said.

"Even more disappointing is the president's refusal to listen to the families of the victims taken from us on September 11, who should have the chance to hold those behind the deadliest terrorist attack in American history accountable," he added.

Saudi Arabia has denied any involvement despite 19 of the hijackers coming from that country.

Other lawmakers have expressed concern about other consequences the bill could have if it were passed. 

"I worry about trial lawyers trying to get rich off of this," House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., said. "At the same time, these victims need to have their day in court."

"If the Saudi government is innocent, it has nothing to fear from a day in court. If it is culpable, it should be held accountable," Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said in a statement.

The bill passed both the House and the Senate earlier this year. The Hill reports there are enough votes from both Senate Republicans and Democrats to override the veto.

"At whatever point the president vetoes it, we will have to take it up, and there will be a roll call vote on the veto override," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., told reporters Tuesday. "Our assumption is that the veto will be overridden."

Some Republicans believe the president has taken his time vetoing the measure to keep them off the campaign trail.

Presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton said they would have signed the bill.

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