ATLANTA (AP) — U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson says he's "deeply skeptical" that using force against Syria is in the nation's interest.

The Democrat from Lithonia said in a statement that he doesn't believe President Obama needs Congressional approval to conduct limited strikes in Syria. He said he respects the president's decision to seek authorization from lawmakers before taking military action. That possibility comes after Syrian President Bashar Assad's regime was blamed by the U.S. and the Syrian opposition for an Aug. 21 alleged chemical weapons attack in a rebel-held suburb of the Syrian capital of Damascus.

President Barack Obama said he has decided that the U.S. should take military action against Syria but is seeking congressional authorization for the use of force. A vote is expected after Congress returns to work Sept. 9.