A resolution spearheaded by Representatives Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) to limit President Donald Trump’s military powers concerning Iran has received backing from leading Democrats in the House.
On Thursday, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries from New York, along with other Democratic leaders, announced their intent to bring Massie’s resolution to a vote next week.
“Once Congress reconvenes, we will push for a vote by the whole House on the bipartisan Khanna-Massey War Powers Resolution,” the joint statement indicated.
This legislation would mandate that the president must seek Congressional approval before utilizing military action against Iran. While acknowledging the Iranian regime’s brutality, which has resulted in the deaths of thousands of protesters, the leaders expressed concern about engaging in conflicts in the Middle East without a comprehensive understanding of the associated risks for U.S. military personnel.
Jeffries and his fellow Democrats contend that any military action against Iran without Congressional consent is unlawful.
“We argue that such actions lack constitutionality without proper consultation and authorization from Congress. Next week, all members will have the chance to officially express their stance on military action against Iran in the absence of Congressional approval,” he said.
Massie, in collaboration with Khanna, referenced Congress’s constitutionally granted war powers when they introduced their bill earlier this month.
“Congress must vote on matters of war according to the Constitution,” Khanna posted on social media. “I am determined to push for that vote in the House as soon as possible. I’ll be voting to prioritize America, which means opposing further wars in the Middle East.”
There are multiple ways to compel a vote that may go against House leadership preferences, but the most efficient method is known as a “privileged resolution.” This process requires any specific bill to be considered by the entire chamber within two days of its introduction.
Nevertheless, before a final vote on the bill, Republican leaders have the option to initiate a preliminary vote to either advance the bill or refer it to the proper committee, both of which can effectively bypass the resolutions.
It appears that a preliminary procedural vote may allow members of the majority party to more easily reject the resolution prior to the main vote.
In this situation, if all Democrats unite to assert control over Trump’s war powers, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) would only be permitted one Republican defector. As Massie is likely to side with the minority, all other Republicans would have to stand together to block the resolution.
