A small but significant number of Republican lawmakers are voting against Donald Trump's priorities, showing rare signs of independent thought. Recent actions include a House vote to limit war powers against Iran and Senate efforts to block a controversial fund, highlighting growing unease about executive power.
The Senate voted 50-47 to advance a war powers resolution targeting Donald Trump's war in Iran. Four Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the measure, which aims to force congressional authorization for continued conflict. Senator Bill Cassidy cited a lack of clarity from the White House as his reason for voting to advance the bill.
President Trump informed Congress that the conflict with Iran has ended, citing a ceasefire to avoid the 60-day War Powers Resolution deadline. Critics and some Republicans argue the military blockade and troop presence necessitate formal Congressional authorization.
Trump administration insists the US is not at war with Iran despite the 60-day War Powers Resolution deadline arriving May 1. House Speaker Mike Johnson says no congressional authorization is needed since active hostilities have ceased. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claims the ceasefire pauses the legal clock, but Democrats challenge this interpretation. The conflict has cost $25 billion and claimed 13 American service members.
The Trump administration asserts the U.S. is not at war with Iran, despite approaching the War Powers Resolution's 60-day deadline. House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed this, stating no congressional authorization is needed as active hostilities have ceased. This stance, however, faces challenges from Democrats who argue the deadline remains binding.
President Trump faces a Friday deadline under the 1973 War Powers Resolution that could halt U.S. military operations against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified Thursday he believes the statutory 60-day countdown pauses during the current ceasefire, but Sen. Tim Kaine immediately disputed this interpretation. The U.S. first struck Iran on Feb. 28, with Trump notifying Congress on March 2, starting the clock. A ceasefire was announced April 7. Republicans including Sen. Susan Collins have said Congress needs a say in continued military action.
