Senate advances Iran war powers resolution in bipartisan vote

The Senate voted Tuesday to advance a war powers resolution that would require President Trump to end military operations in Iran unless Congress explicitly authorizes continued hostilities. The measure passed 50-47, with four Republicans breaking ranks to join Democrats: Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Rand Paul of Kentucky, and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana. The vote marks the first time in seven attempts that Democrats succeeded in advancing such a resolution, dealing a significant political blow to the administration's Iran policy. The resolution, sponsored by Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, would mandate the removal of U.S. armed forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless authorized by a formal declaration of war or specific use-of-military-force authorization. The breakthrough came after Cassidy, who recently lost a Senate primary to a Trump-endorsed challenger, voted in favor of advancing the measure for the first time. Three other Republicans, including John Cornyn of Texas, Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, did not participate in the vote, effectively shifting the outcome in Democrats' favor. Despite the symbolic victory, the resolution faces significant obstacles before becoming law. It must still pass a final Senate vote and clear the House, where Democrats also hold the majority. The White House is expected to issue a veto if the measure reaches the president's desk. However, Democrats argue the vote demonstrates mounting public opposition to the conflict, particularly as gas prices climb ahead of Memorial Day weekend and the 2026 midterm elections approach. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urged Republicans to "break the cycle" and support the war powers measure, stating that no president should have unilateral authority to drag the country into war.