Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer on Monday called for an immediate vote on a War Powers Resolution. His demand came after reports that Iran had attacked U.S. military bases in the Middle East.
Speaking on the Senate floor, Schumer said the attacks put “the lives of thousands of Americans at immediate risk.”
“I pray for their safety,” he said.
Schumer stated he has asked the Trump administration for an immediate classified briefing. He wants to see the full threat picture, the intelligence behind Iran’s retaliation, and the details of any planned U.S. response.
“More importantly, I’ve demanded they lay out exactly what measures they’re taking right now to keep our service members safe,” Schumer added.
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He argued that the White House has a duty to provide answers to lawmakers and the public.
“No president should be allowed to unilaterally march this nation into war with erratic threats, no strategy, no explanation,” Schumer said.
He said this is why he called on the Senate leadership to hold a vote to enforce the War Powers Resolution. The law is intended to limit a president’s ability to commit the United States to an armed conflict without the consent of Congress.
“The law requires the Trump administration to consult with Congress. The Constitution demands it,” he stated.
Schumer concluded that any approach to Iran requires a clear plan. He said confronting the regime’s nuclear ambitions and its “campaign of terror demands strength, resolve, and strategic clarity.”
