House Republicans Delay Vote on War Powers Resolution
House Republicans on Thursday postponed a vote regarding President Donald Trump’s war powers resolution aimed at restricting U.S. military operations in Iran. This decision came after it became evident that the measure would likely receive enough support to pass.
Members of Congress will now need to address the resolution when they reconvene following the Memorial Day recess in June.
Support for U.S.-Iran Conflict Declines
As the conflict disrupts global energy supplies and drives up gasoline prices for U.S. consumers, support among lawmakers for Trump’s actions against Iran is diminishing—even within his own party. The conflict, initiated by Trump without congressional approval on February 28, has elicited growing concern among both Democrats and Republicans.
Republican Resistance to War Powers Resolution
The war powers resolution, which has garnered backing from Democrats, has faced repeated rejection in the Republican-controlled House. However, several lawmakers indicated potential support for the bill ahead of the scheduled vote.
Democratic Leaders Criticize Republican Decision
In a joint statement, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other Democratic leaders condemned the Republican decision to withdraw from the vote, labeling it “cowardly.” They highlighted that the ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 U.S. service members, injuries to hundreds more, and a financial burden of $25 billion for the Pentagon.
Congressional Procedure Surrounding War Powers
Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the president is limited to engaging in military conflict for a maximum of 60 days without congressional approval. In recent developments, President Trump claimed he had paused plans to continue military operations in Iran, contending that the law did not apply due to a continued ceasefire.
Failed Attempts to Pass War Powers Resolution
Last week, another attempt at passing a war powers resolution was narrowly defeated in the House, with three Republicans voting in support. Notably, Rep. Jared Golden of Maine, previously a dissenting Democrat, has signaled willingness to support the resolution in future votes.
Call for Accountability from Lawmakers
Following the postponement of the vote, Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) raised questions on the House floor regarding why the resolution was not being discussed. His remarks, which criticized lawmakers for avoiding a vote amid public fatigue over the ongoing war, drew applause from his Democratic colleagues.
As the chamber prepares to reopen on June 2, it is expected that parliamentary time will run out, compelling members to act on the resolution at that time.
