(MCT) — WASHINGTON — In a newly revealed memo, the Obama administration claims authority to target and kill overseas al-Qaida members, even American citizens, in broad terms that go beyond previous statements by the president and his top aides.

The administration’s position has brought objections from some longtime critics. However, the response from Congress has been muted, reflecting the degree to which once-controversial practices in drone warfare have become mainstream after more than a decade of conflict.