Senate Republicans defeated a fifth Democratic attempt to invoke the War Powers Act and end President Trump's Iran conflict, as the constitutionally mandated 60-day deadline for congressional approval rapidly approaches. The vote came on day 54 of the war, just one day after Trump extended the fragile ceasefire citing Iran's "seriously fractured" government.
Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., who forced Wednesday's vote, slammed the administration's strategy. "This war has simply been a disaster, and there is absolutely no reason we should go full steam ahead back into it," Baldwin said. The Wisconsin Democrat represents the growing concern among lawmakers about the conflict's cost, duration and unclear endgame.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., vowed to keep the pressure on Republicans. "Our caucus is united and focused on ending the war in Iran," Schumer said. "And we're going to keep voting on those resolutions again and again and again." Democrats have six more war powers resolutions ready for floor votes.
The GOP's united front shows cracks as the 60-day War Powers Resolution deadline approaches next week. At least three Senate Republicans — Susan Collins of Maine, Thom Tillis of North Carolina, and John Curtis of Utah — have publicly stated they won't support extending the war beyond the constitutional limit. Collins said last week it was "very likely" she would vote against continuing hostilities.
Behind the scenes, Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, is crafting an Authorization for Use of Military Force that would give Congress formal input on future Iran operations. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., remained noncommittal about bringing an AUMF to the floor. "We'll see what our kind of conference's will is on that and where our members are," Thune said.
The debate unfolds against troubling intelligence warnings. Former CIA station chief Dan Hoffman told Fox News that China is "propping up Iran with dual-use equipment and missile-linked chemicals." The revelation adds urgency to congressional oversight as intelligence sources previously reported Iran retains half its missile arsenal despite Pentagon claims.
Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., faces criticism for reportedly supporting Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps vessels evading U.S. Navy patrols in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The Connecticut Democrat's comments highlight the deep partisan divisions over America's Middle East strategy as oil chokepoints remain contested.
The constitutional clock is ticking for Trump and congressional Republicans. Next week's 60-day mark will force a direct vote on whether Congress authorizes continued military action against Iran. With at least three GOP senators already signaling opposition and Democrats unified against the war, the administration faces its biggest legislative test yet on Iran policy.
