The Senate last night defeated a measure aimed at curtailing President Donald Trump’s authority to launch military strikes against Iran.
The resolution, sponsored by Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey, would have required the president to remove U.S. armed forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless explicitly authorized by a declaration of war or specific authorization for use of military force.
The measure was defeated 53-47, with one Democrat—Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania—voting alongside Republicans. Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky was the sole Republican to support the resolution.
Earlier this month, the House rejected a similar proposal sponsored by Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna by a vote of 219-212. Only two Republicans—Massie and Warren Davidson of Ohio—backed the measure. Four Democrats—Henry Cuellar of Texas, Jared Golden of Maine, Greg Landsman of Ohio, and Juan Vargas of California—opposed it.
During his floor argument, Senator Booker emphasized that the conflict, which began on February 28, has now entered its third week and is spiraling out of control. He stated: “U.S. diplomatic posts and military facilities in the Middle East are under constant attack.”
Booker added: “The war has expanded to affect at least 15 different countries, from the bases of our European allies to regional partners.” He also noted domestic impacts: “Here at home, we are seeing skyrocketing costs for basic goods, energy, and gasoline.”
Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina condemned the resolution as unconstitutional, stating that it would effectively place all members of Congress in the role of commander-in-chief. Graham further remarked: “After 60 days, if Congress fails to approve military action, operations must stop.”
