House Republicans Defy Trump, Vote With Democrats on Iran War Powers
Seven GOP lawmakers joined Democrats in passing a resolution to limit the president's military authority.
A resolution aimed at reining in President Donald Trump's war powers in Iran passed the House of Representatives on Tuesday, propelled by a contingent of seven House Republicans who voted with Democrats.
The measure, introduced by Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., and supported by 14 other House Democrats, passed in a 220-204 vote. It was opposed by 203 House Republicans and Rep. Kevin Kiley, I-Calif., who caucuses with the GOP.
Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Mich., who was among the Republicans to vote in favor of the resolution, stated his consistent position that Congress, not the White House, should declare war. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 generally permits a president to engage U.S. forces in hostilities for up to 60 days without congressional authorization, followed by a 30-day withdrawal period. Supporters of the recent resolution argued that this period had already expired regarding operations in Iran.
The Trump administration, however, maintained that the president was acting within his constitutional authority as commander in chief. Officials defended the continued military operations, asserting that the resolution would unduly restrict the president's ability to protect U.S. forces and national security interests.
The conflict in Iran has become a contentious issue in the current midterm election cycle, dividing the Republican party and providing Democrats with ammunition to accuse Trump of engaging in another prolonged conflict. Some lawmakers and analysts have also linked the ongoing hostilities to rising gas prices, a key concern for voters.
Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., a vocal critic of Trump's foreign entanglements, has also sought to force a vote on impeaching Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. However, the majority of Republicans remain aligned with the president, asserting his actions are within his rights. Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-Ind., expressed support for Trump's handling of the situation, emphasizing the president's promise to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
A similar resolution was passed by the Senate in June, also with a number of Republican defections. Despite potential passage by both chambers, President Trump has indicated opposition to such legislation, suggesting it would likely face a presidential veto.