WASHINGTON — John A. Boehner, the House speaker, on Thursday forcefully backed President Obama's call for congressional action to train and arm Syrian rebels battling the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, joining Senate Democratic leaders to promise a vote next week in a rare display of unity.
The speaker somberly acknowledged divisions within his Republican ranks, but he vowed to lead the fight.
"The president made clear he does not want boots on the ground. Well, somebody's boots have to be on the ground," he said. "At this point in time, it's important to give the president what he asked for."
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