GOP blocks Dems efforts to restrict Trumps war powers after strikes on Iran nuke sites

WASHINGTON — Democratic efforts in the Senate to prevent President Donald Trump from further escalating with Iran fell short Friday, with Republicans blocking a resolution that marked Congress’ first attempt to reassert its war powers following U.S.strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.The resolution, authored by Sen.

Tim Kaine of Virginia, aimed to affirm that Trump should seek authorization from Congress before launching more military action against Iran.Asked Friday if he would bomb Iranian nuclear sites again if he deemed necessary, Trump said, “Sure, without question.”The measure was defeated in a 53-47 vote in the Republican-held Senate.

One Democrat, Sen.John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, joined Republicans in opposition, while Sen.

Rand Paul of Kentucky was the only Republican to vote in favor.Most Republicans have said Iran posed an imminent threat that required decisive action from Trump, and they backed his decision to bomb three Iranian nuclear sites last weekend without seeking congressional approval.“Of course, we can debate the scope and strategy of our military engagements,” said Sen.Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn.

“But we must not shackle our president in the middle of a crisis when lives are on the line.”Democrats cast doubt on that justification, arguing the president should have come to Congress first.They also said the president did not update them adequately, with Congress’ first briefings taking place Thursday.“The idea is this: We shouldn’t send our sons and daughters into war unless there’s a political consensus that this is a good idea, this is a national interest,” Kaine said in a Thursday interview with The Associated Press.

The resolution, Kaine said, wasn’t aimed at restricting the president’s ability to defend against a threat, but that “if it’s offense, let’s really make sure we’re making the right decision.”In a statement following Friday’s vote, Kaine said he was “disappointed that many of my coll...