Kerry on Iraq War

Why did Kerry vote yes on the resolution to authorize the use of force in Iraq?

The resolution of October 11, 2002 authorized the President to use force if necessary; it did not direct the President to go to war. Kerry voted for the resolution in order to strengthen the President's hand in dealing with Saddam Hussein and the U.N. It was not a vote on the question 'Should we attack Iraq?' Nothing in the resolution required or recommended that the President take the nation into war when alternatives were available. That decision was made by President Bush."