Kathrine Frich
They insist any further military moves against Iran require an official vote.
Political loyalty usually runs deep when an election is just around the corner.
Keeping the party line strong is rule number one. But sometimes a divisive issue makes politicians break ranks and vote with the opposition.
Crossing the aisle
That happened in the US House of Representatives this week. Seven Republicans teamed up with the Democratic majority to restrict the military powers of President Donald Trump. Their main concern is the ongoing situation with Iran.
Fox News cited by O2 reported the final tally stood at 220 to 204. The resolution managed to pass thanks to this highly unusual cross-party support. Lawmakers who flipped their votes included Thomas Massie, Nancy Mace, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Warren Davidson.
Democratic Congressman Seth Moulton introduced the measure. Lawmakers want to stop the president from running military operations overseas without getting a formal green light from Congress first.
The ticking clock
The debate traces back to the War Powers Resolution of 1973. This rule lets a president send American troops into action for 60 days without asking for permission. After that window, there is usually a 30-day period to pull forces back.
Supporters of the new resolution argue that this time limit has already run out. Because of that, they insist any further military moves against Iran require an official vote.
The Republicans who broke away from their party line agree. They point out that the US Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war.
A likely veto
Over at the White House, officials see things differently. The administration argues that the president serves as the commander in chief. According to them, Trump has the constitutional right to take actions necessary to protect national security.
This resolution has a long way to go before it becomes law. The president has already promised to fight it. If the bill reaches his desk, he will almost certainly use his veto power to kill it.
Even so, this small rebellion shows tensions are rising ahead of November.
Trouble at home
Some politicians inside the president’s camp are getting nervous. They openly question whether getting heavily involved in the Middle East is a smart move for Washington.
Everyday Americans are also feeling the sting of these overseas choices. Fuel prices at local gas stations have shot up dramatically. Voters are paying close attention, and that could spell trouble at the ballot box.
Sources: Fox News, O2.
