The U.S. Senate rejected Democrats' sixth attempt to limit President Trump's authority to wage war in Iran, with a procedural vote failing 47-50 on Thursday. The resolution, brought by California Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff, aimed to direct the president to remove American forces from hostilities with Iran.
Key Takeaways
The U.S. Senate rejected Democrats' sixth attempt to limit President Trump's authority to wage war in Iran, failing 47-50. The vote came ahead of a May 1 deadline under the War Powers Resolution for Congress to authorize or end military action. Republicans have largely supported Trump's actions, while Democrats seek to reinstate congressional oversight.
The rejection comes as the U.S. approaches a May 1 deadline under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which requires the president to end military action after 60 days unless Congress authorizes an extension. President Trump notified lawmakers of the hostilities on March 2, starting the 60-day clock.
Democrats have repeatedly introduced resolutions seeking to force Trump to withdraw U.S. forces or obtain congressional authorization since the conflict began on February 28. However, Republicans, who hold slim majorities in both chambers, have voted down these resolutions almost unanimously.
The war has become deeply partisan, with Democrats calling for Congress to reassert its constitutional right to declare war and Republicans accusing Democrats of trying to use War Powers law to weaken Trump. The conflict began when Israel and the United States launched airstrikes on Iran.
According to CBS News, Republican Senator John Curtis of Utah has expressed support for Trump's actions but would not support ongoing military action beyond the deadline without congressional approval. Meanwhile, Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer of New York has co-sponsored resolutions seeking to end the war, criticizing Republicans for not acting despite public discontent with the conflict.
Al Jazeera reports that at least two Republican senators have suggested they would not vote to approve further U.S. military action following May 1. Senator Lisa Murkowski is working on an authorization of use of military force (AUMF) for the war, which would allow the U.S. military to continue operations without a full declaration of war.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegset told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the administration considers the 60-day window to be paused due to an ongoing ceasefire. However, Virginia Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine cast doubt on this assertion, stating that he does not believe the statute would support it. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Congress doesn't need to act because the U.S. is 'not at war' and is trying to broker a peace.
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