U.S. Senate Votes Up a ‘Iran War Powers’ Resolution, Faces Likely Veto

Feb. 13, 2020 (EIRNS)—The U.S. Senate voted up an “Iran War Powers” Resolution today, which prevents President Donald Trump from attacking Iran without Congressional approval. The resolution was introduced by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) in January, after President Trump ordered the Jan. 3 drone strike that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani shortly after he had arrived in Iraq. Action on the resolution was postponed while the Senate took up impeachment.

Today the resolution passed by a 55-45 vote, although President Trump opposed it. Eight Republicans voted for it, including Trump allies Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) and Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT). Other Republicans who voted for it include: Sens. Lamar Alexander (TN), Susan Collins (Maine), Lisa Murkowski (AK), Todd Young (IN), Bill Cassidy (LA) and Jerry Moran (KS).

A resolution passed by the House in January would not have been binding, and therefore the difference between the two bills would have to be reconciled before an act can be sent to the President for signature. It is likely the President would veto it, which could only be overturned by a two-third vote in both chambers. While both bills passed with bipartisan votes, neither was close to two-thirds majority.