President Trump on Wednesday vetoed a war powers resolution that would have curbed his ability to direct military action against Iran without Congress’ authorization.
Why it matters: The bipartisan measure came after Trump ordered a strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimaniin January, bringing the two nations to the brink of war.
- The Senate passed the resolution 55–45 in February. Eight Republican senators — Mike Lee (R-Utah), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) — joined Democrats in voting for the resolution.
- The House passed the resolution 227-186 in March. It’s unlikely that either chamber will have the two-thirds majority necessary to override Trump’s veto. Continue reading.