Congressional Leaders React to Trump Ordering Strike Attack on Iran

Congressional leaders reacted with surprise to President Trump’s order for strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, with Republican lawmakers generally supporting the action while Democrats questioned its legality. Senator Graham praised the decision, while Senator Sanders decried it as unconstitutional. The division highlights ongoing debates regarding the president’s war powers.

Congressional leaders responded with a mix of surprise and support following President Donald Trump’s announcement that he has ordered an attack on three Iranian nuclear sites. Many Republicans applauded the decision, while Democrats raised concerns over the legality and authority of the president in this matter, leading to a polarized reaction within Congress.

Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina known for his strong support of Israel, took to social media to advocate for the strikes. He stated, “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 other end of the political spectrum, Senator Bernie Sanders expressed loud disapproval during a public event in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Reading Trump’s announcement to his audience, he emphasized that the action was “grossly unconstitutional” and reminded them that only Congress has the power to declare war, insisting, “the president does not have the right.”

Arizona Republican Representative Rick Crawford, who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, revealed that he was in contact with Trump prior to the strikes. He stated, “As I have said multiple times recently, I regret that Iran has brought the world to this point. I am thankful President Trump understood that the red line…was real.”

Conversely, some Republicans questioned the president’s authority. Kentucky Representative Tom Massie declared on social media, “This is not constitutional.” Additionally, Connecticut’s Representative Jim Himes pointed out, “According to the Constitution we are both sworn to defend, my attention to this matter comes BEFORE bombs fall. Full stop.”

In reaction to the strikes, California Representative Ro Khanna called for a return to Washington to vote on a War Powers Resolution that could prevent further military action. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson was reportedly briefed about the strikes ahead of time, although a planned trip to Israel was canceled due to the turmoil.

Johnson publicly endorsed the U.S. action, describing it as indicative of “decisive” leadership against terrorism. Senate Majority Leader John Thune also received a briefing and subsequently backed the strikes, emphasizing the perceived threat Iran’s nuclear program poses.

Other Republican senators, including John Barrasso and John Cornyn, praised Trump for his move to address what they consider a significant threat. Barrasso remarked on X, “President @realDonaldTrump’s decision to strike Iran’s nuclear program is the right one. God Bless our troops.”

Meanwhile, Pennsylvania’s Senator John Fetterman acknowledged the strikes as appropriate, stating, “Iran is the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism and cannot have nuclear capabilities. I’m grateful for and salute the finest military in the world.”

As the situation develops, it remains crucial for constituents and observers alike to stay informed on this evolving story, reflecting on the implications of such military actions in international relations and domestic law.

The reactions from Congressional leaders to President Trump’s order for a strike on Iranian nuclear sites showcase a split between support from Republican lawmakers and legal concerns raised by Democrats. While some officials view the strikes as necessary to combat Iranian threats, others assert that only Congress has the constitutional power to authorize military action. The debate reflects ongoing tensions about U.S. military engagement in the Middle East and raises important questions about executive authority in matters of war.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com