Democratic lawmakers are mobilizing to rein in President Trump's military authority regarding Iran, despite challenges in the Republican-controlled Congress.
Democrats Push for War Powers Resolution Amid Tense Situation with Iran
Democrats Push for War Powers Resolution Amid Tense Situation with Iran
Efforts intensify for a congressional vote on military action limits against Iran as tensions escalate.
June 24, 2025, 2:13 p.m. ET
Democratic leaders on Capitol Hill are advancing their initiative aimed at restricting President Trump's power to engage in military action against Iran. This push comes against the backdrop of a fragile cease-fire, with hopes for a Senate vote potentially occurring by week's end.
Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia serves as the main proponent of a resolution requiring congressional approval prior to any U.S. military engagements with Iran. To build broader support from fellow Democrats, Kaine has proposed revisions that clarify the resolution's focus on limiting only offensive military actions, while allowing for support of Israel in defensive scenarios. Alongside him, Senators Adam Schiff from California and Andy Kim from New Jersey are backing this measure, which was amended to explicitly state that congressional consent would not be necessary to protect American individuals or facilities abroad or to continue intelligence sharing with allies like Israel in response to threats from Iran.
In a statement, Schiff articulated that these adjustments aim to ensure the resolution does not impede the United States' capacity to safeguard its troops or provide support to Israel if Iran perpetrates attacks against them or their allies.
Despite these efforts, the resolution faces significant hurdles, as the Republican party controls majorities in both the House and Senate, making approval of any limits on Trump’s military authority unlikely. Nonetheless, this endeavor reopens discussions surrounding Congress's intended role in warfare, a topic that has been relatively dormant in recent years.
Democratic leaders on Capitol Hill are advancing their initiative aimed at restricting President Trump's power to engage in military action against Iran. This push comes against the backdrop of a fragile cease-fire, with hopes for a Senate vote potentially occurring by week's end.
Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia serves as the main proponent of a resolution requiring congressional approval prior to any U.S. military engagements with Iran. To build broader support from fellow Democrats, Kaine has proposed revisions that clarify the resolution's focus on limiting only offensive military actions, while allowing for support of Israel in defensive scenarios. Alongside him, Senators Adam Schiff from California and Andy Kim from New Jersey are backing this measure, which was amended to explicitly state that congressional consent would not be necessary to protect American individuals or facilities abroad or to continue intelligence sharing with allies like Israel in response to threats from Iran.
In a statement, Schiff articulated that these adjustments aim to ensure the resolution does not impede the United States' capacity to safeguard its troops or provide support to Israel if Iran perpetrates attacks against them or their allies.
Despite these efforts, the resolution faces significant hurdles, as the Republican party controls majorities in both the House and Senate, making approval of any limits on Trump’s military authority unlikely. Nonetheless, this endeavor reopens discussions surrounding Congress's intended role in warfare, a topic that has been relatively dormant in recent years.
