House Undermines Trump’s Authority with War Powers Resolution on Iran
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Despite strong Republican opposition, seven GOP members sided with Democrats to pass a resolution that would restrict President Trump’s ability to protect U.S. interests in Iran beyond the 60-day limit.
A group of lawmakers, led by Democrats and joined by a small number of Republicans, approved a war powers resolution that threatens to tie President Donald Trump’s hands in defending the nation’s interests in Iran after the 60-day period allowed for presidential action without Congress. The measure, introduced by Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., was pushed through with the votes of all 213 Democrats and seven Republicans, passing narrowly at 220-204.
Republicans who broke ranks—Reps. Tom Barrett, R-Mich., Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, and Thomas Massie, R-Ky.—argued for congressional control over military deployments, disregarding the president’s constitutional role as commander in chief and the need for swift action in dangerous times.
"It’s up to Congress to prevent another endless American war," Barrett said, echoing talking points that undermine America’s ability to respond to threats.
The majority of Republicans, along with independent Rep. Kevin Kiley, I-Calif., stood firm, defending the president’s right to act decisively in the nation’s defense.
"The president has done a good job managing all this," Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-Ind., stated, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to protecting both U.S. and Iranian interests against hostile forces.
The resolution refers to the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which restricts the president’s ability to engage in hostilities beyond 60 days without congressional approval. Supporters of the measure claim the Iran operation has already passed this limit, but critics warn that such restrictions could embolden America’s adversaries. The Senate passed a similar measure in June, with a few Republicans crossing over, raising concerns about weakening executive authority in matters of national security.