The Senate on Wednesday narrowly rejected a Democratic-led resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to use military force against Iran, with the measure falling in a 50-49 vote. Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) did not attend the vote. The resolution marked the seventh unsuccessful attempt by Senate Democrats since the conflict with Iran escalated earlier this year.
Democrats argued that Congress should be required to authorize additional military action under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, emphasizing the need for legislative oversight as tensions in the Middle East continue. Republicans, in contrast, defended Trump’s authority as commander in chief to respond swiftly to threats in the region.
One Republican senator broke with party lines to support the measure, highlighting growing concerns among some GOP lawmakers about the ongoing conflict. Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) all voted in favor of the resolution.
The conflict formally escalated on February 28 following major U.S. military operations linked to Iran. Democrats have repeatedly argued that the administration may be approaching or exceeding the limits established under the War Powers Resolution without explicit congressional approval. The White House maintains that it remains within its constitutional authority, citing shifting ceasefire negotiations and pauses in direct fighting that affect the legal timeline for continued military action.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the administration’s approach during congressional testimony this week, asserting that the United States remains prepared to counter Iranian threats while safeguarding strategic shipping routes and protecting American forces in the region.