Senate Rejects Motion to Discharge War Powers Resolution on Iran Conflict 47-53, Agrees to Proceed to Housing Bill 90-8
The Senate convened for a major legislative day, primarily marked by a contentious debate and vote on a War Powers Resolution concerning ongoing military actions in Iran. The motion to discharge S.J. Res. 104, which sought to direct the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities in Iran not authorized by Congress, failed with a vote of 47-53. Following this, the Senate agreed to a motion to proceed to H.R. 6644, the "Housing for the 21st Century Act," a significant bipartisan bill aimed at increasing housing supply and affordability, by a vote of 90-8. The day also included tributes to fallen servicemembers and discussions on economic policy.
This chamber-day holds high significance due to the Senate's direct engagement with the President's military actions in Iran, asserting its constitutional role in war powers. The failure of the War Powers Resolution motion means the President's unilateral military actions in Iran will continue without explicit congressional authorization. Concurrently, the strong bipartisan vote to proceed to the "21st Century ROAD to Housing Act" signals a legislative commitment to addressing the national housing crisis, potentially leading to substantial reforms in housing policy and regulation.
Directing the Removal of United States Armed Forces from Hostilities Within or Against the Islamic Republic of Iran that Have Not Been Authorized by Congress
S.J. Res. 104Question before the chamber
Motion to discharge the Committee on Foreign Relations from further consideration of S.J. Res. 104.
The case for
Senators Kaine, Schumer, Durbin, Hickenlooper, Markey, Peters, Murphy, Warnock, and Schiff argued that the President's military actions in Iran constitute a war, which, under the Constitution, requires congressional authorization. They emphasized the human cost of war, the lack of a clear strategy or endgame from the administration, and the dangers of unilateral presidential action. They highlighted the historical pattern of U.S. involvement in the Middle East leading to 'endless wars' and urged Congress to reassert its constitutional role to prevent further escalation and casualties. Senator Kaine stated, "We don't need illegal wars. We don't need forever wars. We don't need more wars in the Middle East." Senator Warnock noted the administration's shifting rationales and lack of a plan for the 'day after' the decapitation of Iran's leadership.
The case against
Senators Barrasso, Ricketts, McConnell, Ernst, Wicker, Tuberville, and Risch argued that the President, as Commander in Chief, has inherent constitutional authority to defend the nation and that the War Powers Act is unconstitutional. They asserted that Iran is the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism, responsible for killing thousands of Americans since 1979, and that the current military operation, "Operation Epic Fury," is a necessary and successful defensive action to destroy Iran's missile capabilities, navy, terrorist networks, and nuclear ambitions. Senator Barrasso stated, "The purpose of the War Powers Act of 1973 is to ensure consultation and reporting. It is never intended to allow Congress to micromanage military operations." Senator Graham emphasized that the Ayatollah was a "religious Nazi" and that the operation was about settling accounts with a regime bent on destruction, not an endless war.
Disposition
Motion to discharge · recorded vote
rejected
Yeas 47, Nays 53
Who is affected
- American servicemembers and their families: Directly impacted by deployment, casualties, and the risks of ongoing hostilities in Iran.
- Iranian people: Affected by the military actions, the death of their Supreme Leader, and the potential for increased instability or regime change.
- U.S. taxpayers: Bear the financial costs of military operations, potentially diverting funds from domestic priorities.
- U.S. allies and adversaries: Observe U.S. resolve and the application of its foreign policy, influencing regional and global dynamics.
HOUSING FOR THE 21ST CENTURY ACT
H.R. 6644Question before the chamber
Motion to proceed to H.R. 6644, a bill to increase the supply of housing in America, and for other purposes.
The case for
Senators Thune and McCormick argued that the bill, the "ROAD to Housing Act," is the most significant housing bill in a decade, designed to make homeownership more affordable and accessible. They highlighted provisions to cut red tape in permitting and construction, provide grants and forgivable loans for home repairs to low-income homeowners, and empower local communities in decision-making. Senator McCormick emphasized the bill's potential to address the shortage of 100,000 homes in Pennsylvania, lower median home prices, and preserve home values, benefiting young families and veterans.
The case against
No opposition to the motion to proceed to H.R. 6644 was aired in the Record. While Senator Schumer generally spoke about the need to address the affordability crisis, his remarks were not in opposition to this specific measure.
Disposition
Motion to proceed · recorded vote
agreed to
Yeas 90, Nays 8
Who is affected
- American families and first-time homebuyers: Aimed at increasing housing supply and affordability, potentially making homeownership more attainable.
- Low-income homeowners and eligible landlords: Could receive grants and forgivable loans for home repairs, improving housing quality and stability.
- Local communities and governments: Empowered to make decisions tailored to their needs and benefit from streamlined processes for housing development.
- Veterans: Specific provisions designed to help veterans afford good homes and avoid housing insecurity.
- Appraisal industry: Subject to reforms aimed at improving standards and addressing workforce needs.
Senate Rejects Motion to Discharge War Powers Resolution on Iran
highA bipartisan motion to discharge S.J. Res. 104, which aimed to direct the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities in Iran, failed in the Senate by a vote of 47-53. Proponents argued for Congress's constitutional authority to declare war and expressed concerns about an escalating, ill-defined conflict, while opponents defended the President's role as Commander in Chief and the necessity of the military actions against Iran.
Senate Agrees to Proceed to Major Housing Legislation
highThe Senate voted 90-8 to agree to the motion to proceed to H.R. 6644, the "Housing for the 21st Century Act." This bill, which passed the Banking Committee unanimously, is described as the most significant housing legislation in a decade, aiming to increase housing supply, improve affordability, and reform federal housing programs.
Tributes Paid to Fallen Servicemembers Amidst Iran Conflict
mediumSeveral Senators, including Mr. Grassley, Mr. Ricketts, Ms. Ernst, Mr. Peters, Mrs. Fischer, Mr. Warnock, and Mr. Coons, offered solemn tributes to six American servicemembers, including four from Iowa, who were killed in Kuwait during Operation Epic Fury in Iran. These tributes underscored the human cost of the ongoing military operations.
Ongoing Debate on Iran Conflict Rationales and Strategy
highThroughout the day, Senators engaged in extensive debate regarding the Trump administration's rationale and strategy for military actions in Iran. Concerns were raised about shifting explanations for the war, the lack of a clear endgame, and the absence of a congressional declaration of war, contrasting with the administration's claims of necessary defensive action against a long-standing terrorist threat.