WASHINGTON, June 25 (DC Times Online) — The Senate on Wednesday rejected a Tim Kaine-led Iran war powers resolution, 50-47, blocking an effort to limit President Donald Trump’s ability to keep U.S. forces engaged unless Congress approved further action.
The vote came after Kaine’s measure had advanced in a 50-47 procedural vote last month. The Virginia Democrat’s resolution would have directed the president to withdraw U.S. forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless lawmakers authorized more military action.
The outcome followed a closed-door lunch Trump held with Senate Republicans the same day. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., later said Trump “raised his voice” during the meeting and that “I lost my temper.”
Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska voted in favor of the resolution, while Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky voted present and Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania voted no.
CBS News reported that Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso, R-Wyo., helped secure support from key Republicans in private conversations before the vote. Trump later thanked Senate allies on Truth Social, saying the vote “puts Iran on notice.”
The Senate action came as Congress continued to test how much authority Trump should have over Iran policy and possible military action without another vote from lawmakers.
