Republicans resist curbing Trump’s war powers ahead of Iran decision

Published June 19, 2025 8:08pm ET



Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) is leading an effort to restrict President Donald Trump’s ability to launch military action against Iran without congressional approval, but is finding little GOP support.

Kaine is making a final push to bring his newly introduced resolution to a vote as soon as next week. The measure would prohibit the president from continuing to use U.S. forces in hostilities, such as supporting Israeli airstrikes, unless Congress explicitly authorizes it. It would also mandate a debate and vote before any future military action is taken. 

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