WASHINGTON, D.C. – Before the President launched a strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities over the weekend, he did not get approval from congress. The Constitution gives congress the power to declare war but some members believe the President overstepped his authority on issuing this attack. We spoke with an expert on the issue surrounding war powers.
“The last time the United States declared war was in World War II,” said Dr. Todd Belt, professor and director of political management at George Washington University.
Congress has declared war on eleven occasions but since the second World War, the United States has been involved in several wars and other military actions.
“In 1973 congress passed what is called ‘War Powers Act’ over Nixon’s veto,” said Dr. Belt. “This was in response to the expansion of the Vietnam war outside of the Vietnam borders in Laos and Cambodia and they said the President can use these powers in a national emergency if there is an attack on US interests.”
“The President can also use force if he gets direct statutory authorization,” adds Dr. Belt. “That is a law passed by congress. This is what George W. Bush did for Afghanistan and Iraq.”
The purpose of the war powers resolution is to ensure there’s a balance of power between the President and congress about using military force. The act aims to prevent the President from essentially committing the us into a long military conflict without congress’ approval. Both Democratic and Republican presidents in the past have argued their actions on using military force are justified because they are the Commander-in-Chief.
“Donald Trump has taken us to the precipice, the precipice of war,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D- NM).
Democrats are criticizing the President for issuing the attack without their consent.
“Three days ago, the President ordered a unilateral military strike against Iran and notified the majority of congress and the American people essentially by tweet,” said Rep. Stansbury.
While some Republicans have shared that same sentiment, most Republicans argue the President has the authority he needs under the constitution.
“The Commander-in-Chief has Article 2 responsibilities,” said Speaker Mike Johnson (R- LA). “They’re very serious and important, especially in times like this. I think he used that authority judiciously.”
There’s now a growing movement with members on both sides of the aisle to further limit the President’s ability to attack Iran unless he gets an explicit declaration of war from congress. Some members hope to force a vote on it sometime this week.
