Anti-Trump Republican courts other defectors as House weighs another vote against Iran war
President Donald Trump has removed JD Vance as chief negotiator on Iran policy amid friction over foreign policy, as House Republicans and Democrats prepare another effort to challenge Trump's military operations in Iran.
The high-profile decision to remove Vance highlights administrative divisions within the Trump administration, occurring two weeks after the midterm elections. Meanwhile, Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., told Fox News Digital that another Iran War Powers resolution could come to the House floor "in the next few legislative days" or around Christmas, marking the fourth attempt this year to restrict Trump's military actions against Iran.
Republican Defections
Three more House Republicans joined Democrats in backing a resolution aimed at reining in President Trump's war powers during the conflict with Iran. Reps. Tom Barrett, R-Mich., Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, and Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., previously voted in favor of an Iran War Powers resolution.
My position would be consistent for it
Growing Opposition
House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Ala., acknowledged that "Massie has been having conversations with members" in an effort to secure additional Republican support. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-N.J., suggested that "one or two" additional Republicans could join the effort.
Massie expressed optimism that more members of his party could join the effort, saying "I'm offering Republicans a life boat from MAGA." However, he also acknowledged uncertainty, criticizing his party's continued support for Trump's military operations.
Congress is paralyzed
Democratic Optimism
House Democrats expressed optimism that Republicans' losses in the 2026 midterm elections could encourage more GOP lawmakers to break with Trump's foreign policy agenda. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., suggested that if Republicans are listening to the people that sent them here, yes they should support the effort.
Rep. Adelita Grijalva, D-Ariz., noted that Republicans may feel less pressure to remain aligned with Trump following the midterms, especially as many prepare to leave Congress or serve in the minority.
Trump's Response
Trump has pledged to veto what he called "insane" Democratic bills on the issue, pinning the War Powers resolution partially to blame for Republican losses in the midterms. The renewed effort comes as lawmakers continue debating Congress' constitutional authority over military operations.
Under the Constitution, Congress holds the power to declare war, while the president serves as commander in chief of the armed forces. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 establishes procedures and limits for military operations conducted without congressional authorization. Despite growing discussions, no vote has been scheduled or confirmed.
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