US Senate rejects Democratic-led resolution to curb Trump's Iran war powers
SPY•The Senate voted 50-49 against a resolution demanding President Donald Trump end the war in Iran or seek congressional authorization. Four Republicans voted for it, while Democrat John Fetterman voted against it.
1. Senate vote
The Senate rejected the resolution on Thursday, largely along party lines. The measure had passed the House in July, but Thursday's vote was described as largely symbolic; the Trump administration has not changed policy in response to previous war powers votes.
2. Election pressure
Democrats say the votes put Republicans on the record about a conflict that has become increasingly unpopular with voters. A Reuters/Ipsos poll this week found that 34% of respondents approved of the strikes on Iran, and the article said the war has pushed up food and fuel prices.
3. Party defections
Republican Senators Susan Collins, Rand Paul, Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski voted for the resolution. Republican Senate candidates Mike Rogers of Michigan and Ashley Hinson of Iowa called on Monday for a swift end to the war, after previously backing Trump's authority to strike Tehran.
