Congressional Leaders React to Trump Ordering Strike Attack on Iran

Congressional leaders show mixed reactions to President Trump’s order of a U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear sites, with some Republicans supporting the action and many Democrats expressing concern over its legality and potential consequences. Senators Lindsey Graham and John Barrasso praised the decision, while Democrats, including Hakeem Jeffries and Bernie Sanders, criticized it for lacking congressional authorization and increasing war risks. House Speaker Mike Johnson endorsed the strikes, emphasizing a decisive measure against terrorism.

Leaders from Congress exhibited a range of reactions late Saturday to President Donald Trump’s announcement of a U.S. military strike on three Iranian nuclear sites. Some Republican voices applauded the decision, while numerous Democrats raised concerns about Trump’s authority to undertake such military action without congressional approval.

Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina known for his strong support of Israel, expressed his approval via X, stating simply, “the right call.” Graham continued, noting, “The regime deserves it. Well done, President @realDonaldTrump. To my fellow citizens: We have the best Air Force in the world. It makes me so proud.”

On the opposing side, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the President’s actions, asserting that Trump had “misled the country.” He indicated that the risk of military conflict had significantly escalated and stressed concern for U.S. troops. In his statement, Jeffries pointed out, “President Trump misled the country about his intentions,” and called for Congress to be adequately briefed on the strike.

Independent Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont reacted publicly during one of his events in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he read a portion of Trump’s announcement to an audience that responded with boos. Sanders asserted, “It is so grossly unconstitutional. All of you know that the only entity that can take this country to war is the U.S. Congress. The president does not have the right.”

Arizona Republican Representative Rick Crawford, who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, also noted he had informed the President before the strikes. He remarked, “As I have said multiple times recently, I regret that Iran has brought the world to this point,” while expressing gratitude for Trump recognizing longstanding red lines regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

In contrast, some GOP lawmakers expressed concerns about the legality of the strikes. Representative Tom Massie of Kentucky shared on X, “This is not constitutional.” Meanwhile, Democrat Representative Jim Himes emphasized the constitutional responsibility of Congress, stating, “According to the Constitution we are both sworn to defend, my attention to this matter comes BEFORE bombs fall. Full stop.”

Democrat Ro Khanna of California insisted on an immediate congressional vote on a proposed War Powers Resolution, to prevent further military involvement in the Middle East. House Speaker Mike Johnson had been briefed on the strikes, although a planned trip to Israel was cancelled amid the escalation in tensions.

Johnson labeled the strikes a “decisive” action to combat terrorism, and other GOP leaders echoed this sentiment. Senate Majority Leader John Thune was briefed ahead of the strikes, with Senator John Barrasso asserting, “President @realDonaldTrump’s decision to strike Iran’s nuclear program is the right one.” Meanwhile, Senator John Cornyn stated, “President Trump made the courageous and correct decision to eliminate the Iranian nuclear threat.”

Democratic Senator John Fetterman acknowledged the strike’s significance, asserting on X, “As I’ve long maintained, this was the correct move by @POTUS. Iran is the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism and cannot have nuclear capabilities.

The reactions from Congress reflect a split along party lines in response to President Trump’s military action against Iran. Republican leaders have largely praised the strike as a necessary move, while many Democrats question its legality and seek further accountability from the administration. The mixed responses highlight ongoing concerns about presidential power in military decisions and the potential implications for U.S. involvement in the Middle East. Given the volatile situation, it will be critical to watch how this develops and what further actions Congress may take.

Original Source: www.yahoo.com