Democrats and a few Republicans say they'll force a vote to limit Trump in Iran

Democratic lawmakers and a small group of Republicans led by Rep. Thomas Massie and Sen. Rand Paul announced plans in Washington on February 28, 2026, to force a congressional vote that would limit President Donald Trump's military actions in Iran, following overnight U.S. and Israeli strikes that most congressional Republicans praised as necessary to halt Iran's nuclear ambitions after months of failed diplomatic efforts. The proposed vote centers on a war powers resolution authored by Massie and Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., which would restrict Trump's ability to carry out further attacks in Iran without congressional approval. The move comes amid growing frustration from Democrats and some Republicans who argue the president exceeded his constitutional authority by ordering military strikes without first seeking authorization from Congress. The political divide over the Iran strikes reflects broader tensions within the GOP between traditional interventionists and more non-interventionist voices. While Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., and House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., both publicly supported Trump's actions, several Republicans including Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, expressed concerns about the lack of congressional approval. 'War requires Congressional authorization,' Davidson stated on social media, indicating he might join Democrats in supporting the resolution. The administration did notify congressional leaders, including the 'Gang of Eight' congressional leaders, before the strikes and briefed the House and Senate Armed Services committees after operations began. The upcoming vote represents a significant test of Trump's influence in Congress and the strength of war powers limitations. Unlike most legislation, the war powers resolution would need just 51 votes in the Senate, where Republicans hold 53 seats, making its passage possible despite GOP control. However, the issue has created unusual alliances, with staunch Israel supporters like Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., expected to vote against the resolution. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., emphasized that while Iran must be confronted for its actions, 'the Trump administration must seek authorization for the preemptive use of military force that constitutes an act of war.' The debate underscores enduring constitutional questions about the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in matters of war.