Senate rejects limiting Trump's military authority on Iran

The Senate rejected a resolution that would have blocked US military action in Iran without congressional authorization, with a vote of 47-53. This decision is seen as a win for the White House, indicating the level of autonomy Republicans and some Democrats are willing to give President Trump. The resolution was introduced by Senator Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia, and received support from one Republican, Rand Paul, while one Democrat, John Fetterman, voted against it. Many Democrats and some Republicans argued that the White House should have sought congressional consent before carrying out the strike in Iran. However, the White House received support from Republican leadership, including Speaker Mike Johnson, who questioned the constitutionality of the War Powers Act. The debate over war powers has been an ongoing issue between the executive branch and Congress, with President Trump having vetoed related resolutions in the past. The recent strike in Iran has reignited this debate, with Congress seeking more information and clarity on the administration's actions. Briefings were held in the Senate and House, but Democrats expressed dissatisfaction, describing them as "propaganda" and a "waste of time". The outcome of the vote suggests that President Trump has been given significant leeway to take unilateral military action against Iran. The rejection of the resolution highlights the ongoing struggle between the executive branch and Congress over war powers, with the White House seeking to maintain control over the narrative surrounding the Iran strike.