Opinion

GREGG JARRETT: Democrat war powers vote was an unconstitutional way to halt Iran strikes

Sen. Tim Kaine's resolution would have required congressional approval for future strikes against Iran

By Gregg Jarrett Fox News

Published March 6, 2026 5:43pm EST

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The Senate on March 4 wisely rejected a new war powers resolution aimed at halting or restricting President Donald Trump’s ability to carry out further military strikes against Iran. A House version also failed. 

Introduced by Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., the resolution in the upper chamber called for ending hostilities "unless explicitly authorized by a declaration of war or a specific authorization for use of military force" issued by Congress.

The resolution, supported by nearly all Democrats, was defective for several reasons.

First, the president can engage in military action with or without a declaration of war. He does not need permission from Congress. Second, there already exists a valid authorization for use of military force that applies directly to the current conflict. Third, such a resolution unconstitutionally violates the separation of powers.

President Donald Trump confirmed the U.S. launched strikes on Iran Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026. Trump is reportedly considering backing militias in Iran to topple the regime.   (Getty Images)

The fallacy of the Democrats’ argument is easily demonstrated by revisiting their own words. It was not that long ago that former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi declared that President Barack Obama did not need authorization from Congress to bomb Libya in 2011. Democrats in unison mimicked her point of view.

They maintained their immutable stance as Obama conducted air strikes in six more countries — Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, Somalia, Iraq and Syria. President Joe Biden followed suit with similar strikes, and nary a complaint from Democrats. 

But when Trump does it, the partisan wolves are scratching at the White House door accusing him of acting lawlessly. Hypocrisy is always in vogue on Capitol Hill.

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