Several potential Democratic contenders for the 2028 presidential race are voicing strong opposition to the recent U.S. military actions in Iran. A number of well-known figures are criticizing President Trump, accusing him of initiating a war that many believe is both unnecessary and unconstitutional.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris stated that the American public does not support being thrust into a conflict. She emphasized, “I oppose regime change wars in Iran, and our military is at risk because of the war President Trump has chosen.” Harris characterized the situation as a reckless gamble that endangers not only American lives but also regional stability. “What we are witnessing is not strength. It is recklessness disguised as determination,” she added.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, during a book tour in San Francisco, sharply condemned Trump for creating a crisis. He remarked, “It comes from weakness disguised as strength,” and further criticized Trump for failing to clarify the war’s end goal, suggesting there was none to begin with.
While promoting his memoir “Youth in a Hurry,” Newsom insisted that, although Iran’s leadership should not acquire nuclear weapons, this does not excuse Trump from engaging in an illegal war that endangers American lives. He stated in a post that Americans wanted essential services, not new conflicts.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also added her voice to the growing dissent, arguing that the American people are being dragged into a war against their will. She highlighted that just recently, negotiations between the U.S. and Iran could have prevented this conflict, yet Trump opted for military action instead. Ocasio-Cortez pointed out that the Constitution clearly stipulates that Congress, not the president, has the authority to declare war, and she supports a resolution that aims to limit presidential war powers.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker echoed similar sentiments, blasting Trump for bypassing Congress and failing to provide a legitimate reason for the military actions. He insisted that Americans deserve to focus on pressing domestic issues rather than dealing with unnecessary wars. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro remarked that the decision to go to war should be made by representatives of the people, not unilaterally by the president.
Shapiro maintained that while the Iranian regime is indeed oppressive, initiating another war is unjustifiable. He also urged Congress to utilize all available authority to prevent further escalation. Even former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg weighed in, arguing that this war, which he described as a “war of choices,” places unnecessary risk on the lives of Americans and allies alike.
Senator Ruben Gallego, drawing on his personal experiences from the Iraq War, expressed that young working-class Americans should not bear the brunt of a conflict that lacks clear justification. He advocated for support of the pro-democracy movement in Iran without resorting to military intervention.
