Congressional Leaders React to Trump Ordering Strike Attack on Iran
President Trump’s order for military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites has drawn mixed reactions from Congressional leaders. Republicans largely support the action, while many Democrats question its constitutionality. Notable figures have voiced their opinions, with calls to address Congressional authority over military engagement.
Congressional leaders have expressed varying reactions to President Donald Trump’s recent order for military strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites. The announcement surprised many, igniting a mix of praise from some Republican allies and scrutiny from Democrats who question Trump’s authority in this critical decision.
Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, known for his strong support of Israel, commended the action on social media shortly after the announcement. In a post, he stated, “The regime deserves it. Well done, President @realDonaldTrump. To my fellow citizens: We have the best Air Force in the world. It makes me so proud.”
Conversely, Senator Bernie Sanders was met with audible boos when he read Trump’s announcement during an event in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Sanders criticized the move as unconstitutional. “The president does not have the right to take this country to war without Congress,” he asserted, emphasizing that the Constitution grants that power solely to Congress.
Additionally, Representative Rick Crawford from Arizona, who heads the House Intelligence Committee, claimed he had been in contact with the president prior to the strikes. He articulated his concern over Iran’s role in escalating tensions but also acknowledged that Trump’s decision was consistent with longstanding red lines articulated by former presidents.
However, not all Republicans supported the president’s decision. Representative Tom Massie from Kentucky challenged the legality of the strikes, stating, “This is not constitutional,” suggesting that Congress should have had a say in authorizing military action.
On the Democratic side, Representative Jim Himes from Connecticut stressed that Congress must address the situation before any military action is taken. “According to the Constitution we are both sworn to defend, my attention to this matter comes BEFORE bombs fall. Full stop,” he posted. Furthermore, Representative Ro Khanna urged colleagues to return to Washington and vote on a War Powers Resolution to prevent further military escalation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson received a briefing before the strikes and voiced strong support for the action, labeling it a “decisive” move against terrorism. His planned visit to Israel for discussions at the Knesset was canceled due to the ongoing crisis.
Senate GOP leaders also expressed their support for the military action. Senate Majority Leader John Thune was briefed before the strikes, while Senator John Barrasso from Wyoming declared Trump’s decision was correct, citing the nuclear threat of Iran to both the U.S. and global safety.
Similarly, Senator John Cornyn from Texas described the action as a courageous decision to mitigate the Iranian nuclear threat, complimenting Trump’s leadership. In line with Republican sentiments, Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman also endorsed the strikes, labeling Iran as the “world’s leading sponsor of terrorism” and advocating for their nuclear capabilities to be halted.
As this situation unfolds, Congress continues to grapple with the ramifications of Trump’s unilateral decision, raising significant questions on constitutional authority and military engagement.
The recent military strikes ordered by President Trump against Iranian nuclear sites have incited a polarized response among Congressional leaders. While some Republicans praised the action as necessary for national security, numerous Democrats challenged the legal basis of such a unilateral decision. As the debate continues, the implications for U.S. military policy and Congressional authority remain critical points of contention.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
