This article details how two Republican senators, Bill Cassidy and Rand Paul, reversed their votes on a war powers resolution concerning Iran. This shift occurred after President Trump publicly and privately pressured them, reportedly calling them “losers” for supporting the resolution. The vote was seen by some Democrats as an effort to appease the President’s “temper tantrum,” despite previous bipartisan congressional votes deeming further war against Iran illegal without authorization. The situation arises amid stalled diplomatic negotiations and a White House request for substantial supplemental funding for military programs related to the conflict.
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Following a contentious meeting, Senator Cassidy admitted to losing his temper with President Trump over a lack of clarity regarding Iran. However, after receiving a personal briefing at the White House from Vice President Vance and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, Cassidy’s stance shifted. He subsequently voted in favor of a war powers bill that closely resembled one he had previously opposed, expressing his gratitude for the White House’s efforts in addressing his concerns.
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The Senate adopted a resolution directing the president to remove military forces from hostilities with Iran, a move that signals a lack of congressional support for such actions. This concurrent resolution, which does not require the president’s signature and carries no legal force, passed with the support of some Republicans and all Democrats present. A White House official dismissed the resolution as insignificant, while proponents argue it sets a precedent for congressional involvement in decisions regarding military engagement. This marks the tenth vote on an Iran war powers measure in the Senate this year.
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During a European and G7 tour, President Lee Jae-myung secured agreements for rapid U.S. warship construction in Korea and urged greater U.S. involvement in Korean Peninsula peace. Discussions with EU leaders addressed steel quota concerns and led to progress in digital trade and public safety cooperation. The President also requested the Pope’s potential visit to Korea, the DMZ, and North Korea, highlighting an enhanced international standing and a commitment to pragmatic diplomacy for national interests.
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Republicans on Thursday struggled to find the necessary votes to dismiss legislation aimed at compelling President Trump to withdraw from the conflict with Iran, ultimately delaying planned votes into June. This decision signals a growing lack of support within Congress for a war initiated without prior congressional approval, as frustration mounts over the conflict’s disruption to global shipping and rising gas prices. Despite White House arguments that the War Powers Resolution no longer applies due to a ceasefire, some Republicans believe the president’s legal timeline for engaging in military action without congressional authorization has expired.
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President Trump has reportedly demanded approximately seven countries send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil trade, though no commitments have yet been secured amidst soaring oil prices. Despite Trump’s assertion that the U.S. does not heavily rely on oil from the strait, he emphasized the need for these nations to protect their own energy interests. Countries approached for the coalition have responded with caution, with some indicating a willingness to cooperate but stressing the need for calmer circumstances. Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency announced a substantial release of emergency oil stocks to stabilize global markets.
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Sources indicate the US military may be prepared to strike Iran as early as this weekend, though President Trump has not yet made a final decision. The White House has been briefed on military readiness following a significant buildup of air and naval assets in the Middle East, but the President is reportedly weighing various arguments for and against military action. While diplomacy is stated as the first option, with indirect talks having occurred, military action remains on the table. This readiness comes amid Iran fortifying its nuclear facilities and as key calendar events, such as the conclusion of the Winter Olympics and the start of Ramadan, are being considered.
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On Wednesday, two National Guard members were critically injured in a shooting near the White House, according to a law enforcement official. The suspect in custody was also shot and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Emergency responders transported all three victims to a hospital, as law enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service and ATF, investigated the scene. President Trump was briefed on the incident, and local officials were monitoring the situation. The shooting occurred amidst a heightened National Guard presence in the capital following an emergency order issued in August.
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As the government shutdown persists into its 39th day, senators will convene over the weekend, hoping to reach a resolution. Airline passengers continue to face disruptions, with over 1,000 flights canceled due to staffing shortages and an FAA order to reduce air traffic, impacting major airports nationwide. Additionally, the Supreme Court has temporarily blocked a court order to fully fund SNAP food aid payments, causing delays in benefits for millions of Americans. President Trump has signaled his unwillingness to compromise with Democrats regarding the Affordable Care Act tax credits, further complicating the negotiations.
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Despite President Trump’s claim of having “highest numbers,” a recent poll from The Economist and YouGov paints a different picture, revealing a mere 39% approval rating. This result is the lowest of his second term so far, with notable disapproval across various demographics, including young voters and women. The survey also indicates poor approval on specific issues like immigration, abortion, and inflation, alongside disapproval of actions such as his trade aggressions and requests for compensation from the Justice Department. Ultimately, the poll data suggests a continued decline in Trump’s public favorability since his time in office.
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John Q. Hosedrinker