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House Democrats on Thursday failed in an attempt to advance a measure limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to conduct military operations in Iran during a brief pro forma session of the chamber.
Maryland Democratic Rep. Glenn Ivey sought to bring up the resolution, introduced by New York Democratic Rep. Gregory Meeks, by unanimous consent. But New Jersey Republican Rep. Chris Smith, who was presiding as speaker pro tempore, adjourned the session without recognizing him.
Several Democrats present objected as the session ended.
“End the war. Let us vote,” said Rep. James Walkinshaw, The Hill reported.
“The Congress needs to consider this. The time has come,” Ivey added.
Pro forma sessions are typically brief meetings used to satisfy constitutional requirements and do not usually allow for substantive legislative action, often making the effort symbolic. The move signals a broader push by Democrats to challenge President Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict and a recently announced ceasefire. Lawmakers said they plan to pursue additional votes next week.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the Senate would again vote on a similar measure to limit presidential war powers.
“Trump must end the war now,” Schumer said. “The only viable solution is a lasting diplomatic one. A two-week ceasefire, especially one as fragile as this, is not a strategy. It’s not a diplomatic solution. It’s not a plan.”
The House previously rejected a comparable resolution in March, though some lawmakers have since indicated they may reconsider their positions, potentially affecting the outcome of a future vote.
USA Today noted that some Republican lawmakers have signaled they may withdraw support for U.S. military operations in Iran if they extend beyond the end of April.
Their position is tied to the War Powers Act, which allows a president to conduct military action for up to 60 days without congressional approval, followed by an additional 30-day period to safely withdraw forces unless Congress authorizes continued involvement.