Congressional Leaders React to Trump Ordering Strike Attack on Iran
President Trump’s order for a strike on Iranian nuclear sites has elicited diverse reactions from Congressional leaders, with Republicans generally supporting his decision while many Democrats express constitutional concerns regarding his authority. House Speaker Mike Johnson endorsed the action amidst a cancelled trip to Israel, and discussions about returning to Congress for a War Powers Resolution have begun.
Congressional leaders were caught off guard on Saturday night following President Donald Trump’s announcement that he has ordered a U.S. strike on three Iranian nuclear facilities. Immediate reactions varied widely, with some Republicans praising the decision while Democrats raised concerns over the president’s authority to initiate such military action.
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, a staunch supporter of Israel, quickly praised the move in a post on X, declaring it “the right call.” He added, “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 contrary, Senator Bernie Sanders, who was in the midst of a “Fight Oligarchy” event in Tulsa, Oklahoma, reiterated his disapproval. When he read Trump’s announcement to boos from the audience, he exclaimed, “Not only is this news alarming…but 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 Representative Rick Crawford, current chair of the House Intelligence Committee and a Republican, stated that he was in communication with Trump prior to the strikes and is monitoring the ongoing situation. He expressed regret that it has come to this, but acknowledged the need for action against Iran given the historical context of the situation.
Meanwhile, Kentucky Representative Tom Massie, also a Republican, argued against Trump’s authority in this matter, calling the strike “not constitutional.” On the Democratic side, Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut emphasized that congressional input should precede any military strikes, insisting, “According to the Constitution we are both sworn to defend, my attention to this matter comes BEFORE bombs fall. Full stop.”
California Representative Ro Khanna also voiced his discontent, urging an urgent return to Washington, D.C. to vote on a War Powers Resolution intended to prevent further military engagement in the Middle East.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, who had been briefed on the attacks beforehand, was set to travel to Israel but canceled his trip due to the developing situation. Johnson supported the strikes, calling them a “decisive” action against terrorism. Additionally, Senate Majority Leader John Thune was also engaged in discussions prior to the strikes.
The sentiment amongst Senate Republicans leaned towards support, with Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming stating, “The greatest threat to the safety of the United States and the world is Iran with a nuclear weapon. God Bless our troops.”
Texas Senator John Cornyn took to X to declare, “President Trump made the courageous and correct decision to eliminate the Iranian nuclear threat. God bless the USA. Thank you to our extraordinary military and our indomitable @POTUS.”
Even some Democrats joined the chorus of those advocating the strike, with Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman affirming, “As I’ve long maintained, this was the correct move by @POTUS. I’m grateful for and salute the finest military in the world.”
This story is still unfolding, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
In summary, President Trump’s unexpected decision to strike Iranian nuclear sites has sparked mixed reactions among Congressional leaders. Republican support contrasts sharply with Democratic concerns over the constitutional authority for such actions. As the situation develops, both parties are in a heated debate about military engagement and legislative prerogatives, reflecting the ongoing tension surrounding U.S. foreign policy in Iran.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
