The U.S. House this past Thursday voted 214-208 to approve a non-binding resolution to end the Iran war, directing the Trump administration to remove armed forces from hostilities. Four Republicans, including Reps. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Tom Barrett of Michigan, Warren Davidson of Ohio and Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, joined Democrats to cast decisive votes for the measure.
Later the same day, the Senate voted 47-49 to reject a “joint resolution” to end the Iran war that would have the force of law, unlike the House version, but would be subject to a presidential veto. One Republican, Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, joined Democrats in voting to advance the measure. Four Republicans didn’t vote including Sens. Katie Britt of Alabama, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Rand Paul of Kentucky.
The votes in both chambers were pushed by Democrats who hoped to get the GOP leadership on the record about an unpopular war ahead of the midterm elections as well as reassert Congress’ constitutional role as the branch of government responsible for declaring war as per the Constitution.
Sens. Thom Tillis of North Carolina and John Curtis of Utah who had spoke out against the war, voted against the measure to end the unpopular conflict. which 70% of Americans are against.
The Iran war will continue at least through the U.S. House summer recess from July 23 to Aug. 31 as lawmakers head home for five weeks.
Public opposition to the conflict is at 70%, putting the GOP leaders at odds with Americans as the body count increases and the cost to the American taxpayers at an estimated $350 million to $1 billion per day, depending on the intensity of active operations.
Additionally, Trump is currently reported to be threatening and bombing Iran’s infrastructure, which is considered to be a war crime under international law.