Hoyer, Dr. Eddie S. Glaude Jr. Remarks at 45th Annual Black History Month Breakfast

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and Dr. Eddie S. Glaude Jr., James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor at Princeton University, delivered remarks at the 45th Annual Black History Month Breakfast in Greenbelt, Maryland. Below are full transcripts of their remarks:

Congressman Steny H. Hoyer

“I said on the Floor of the House that I was going to retire from the Congress, not from Prince George’s, not from Charles, not from St. Mary’s, not from Calvert, not from Anne Arundel, not from the state of Maryland, not from my country. I'm going to face the rising sun of every day begun with you. And I said in that speech I gave, which was tough to get through because I don't want to retire. People tell me, ‘Congratulations,’ I said it wasn't a congratulatory event. It was a recognition of reality. (laughter) Some of you have been to about 40 plus of my birthday [parties], so you know that I'm going to be 87 in June. God has been good to me. But, I'm not sure that he's going to let me at 88 and 89 to be able to represent you as well as I want. So, I'm going to step aside but not step out.

“Now everybody's been introduced so I’m not going to mention everybody, but I'll mention some people along the way. Oh, say, can you see that our flag still flies. Nobody has sung that better than Whitney Houston. I love Whitney Houston. I was so sad when Whitney died. She went too young. You remember, Judy died at 57, my wife. But she lives on. There are over 100 Judy Centers in the state of Maryland today. And then, Nichelle, I want to thank you, because when I saw that there was going to be a sax player, I didn't know he was going to play Whitney again. And it is my message to all of you: I will always love you. And in part, as I said in that speech that I would not be here, I would not have had 45 years in the Congress, I would not have had 12 years in the Maryland State Senate, and I would not have been President of the [State] Senate or Majority Leader without you in this room, and all those who you urged to support Steny Hoyer when a lot of people did not. So I thank you. And by the way, the saxophonist is Roy Miles. It was – and my researcher to my right did the research. He got his phone out and said – because I, you know, I said that it was played in The Bodyguard, you know, that was the movie [with] Kevin Costner. It was Kirk Whalum who played that. It was the longest saxophone solo in any movie in history, and we heard a beautiful rendition of it. Roy, thank you so much.

“My advisor also told me not to touch the dais because it creates static. I appreciate the advice, but ladies and gentlemen, we need to create a hell of a lot of static. These are the times that try mens’ souls. I've had a lot of up times in my life. But like every one of us in this room, I’ve had some low times. I've lost people I loved. I lost three elections over the last 60 years. But I didn't give up, and we're not going to give up, and we're going to win because we're right. Because we are preaching about the fact that our Declaration said, ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident.’ But, ladies and gentlemen, what I tell everybody around this country, they may be self-evident, but they are not self-executing. Each and every one of us has a responsibility. Our rights come from God, but God expects us to carry out our rights for all of God's children.

“So, good morning. I'm glad to be here. I'm glad to be here with my friend. I told people upstairs, it's a little squiggly line that goes through Prince George's County. Nobody pays attention to it other than voters because that's who they get to vote for. But Glenn Ivey and I look at Prince George's County [as] one county that has given us the opportunity along with me and – Charles, thank you very much, Charles County. St. Mary’s County, where I live now, used to vote for me. Then I became Majority Leader and I found out I was a real Democrat. It was worth the price. (laughter) And in Calvert County, they call it, you may call it Cal-vert County, but down in Calvert County they call it Calvert County. And my newly 170,000 people from Anne Arundel County, I want to thank all of you. And in that speech I said it is because of the African-American community that I've been here. I thank you for that. I want to thank our wonderful committee members. We just took pictures up here, but I want all the committee members who have honored me and honored our community and honored Black history year after year after year. Please stand up, I want all of you to stand up for history, the Black History Month Breakfast Committee. Can you – Marlene Kaufman, thank you very much. I want to thank each and every one of you for what you have done. You have kept the faith. You have kept the light burning. And – you can sit down now (laughter). I don't want to overwork you.

“Today, also wouldn't be possible without my friend who work for me for a number of years, and who is an extraordinary person, Sudafi Henry. If it hadn't been for you, we wouldn’t have been able to fund this breakfast every year after year, and to the sponsors, thank you very much. You have made history live. I'm grateful to Cynthia Harvey Pryor. Where are you, Cynthia? She’s not here? Year after year, her Printing Press in Leonardtown for their work on this program. And I hope once again you look at all those pictures. Now, the first picture you see is Jim Taylor. How many of you knew Jim Taylor? They’re very few of us. Jim Taylor was not as famous as some of these people were, but Jim Taylor was the first assistant state’s attorney in Prince George's County. Jim Taylor was the first district court judge in Prince George's County. Jim Taylor was the first circuit court judge in the tough times in the ‘40s and ‘50s and ‘60s. He became those people, but he fought during the ‘40s and ‘50s to hang in there.

"Bill Clinton and I used to have a conversation about the fact that I was part of the civil rights generation. I graduated from – where did I graduate from? Everyone who went to Suitland High School, raise your hand. We don't have a lot of us, but we have some of us. Civil rights – I graduated in 1957. So, I was in high school and coming in the years struggle and confrontation and arrests and lynching when courage was displayed. And you know who was one of our speakers? My friend John Lewis, you look on there, he was a speaker. Jesse Jackson’s son was a speaker. Jesse Jackson – we were in the Cannon Room, it was about the third year of the Black History Breakfast, and in comes this great big fella and interrupted our breakfast. His name was Jesse Jackson also, but he was [the] Senior. Chris, thank you so much for remembering Jesse Jackson so fondly.

“We're fortunate to have presidents of three of Maryland's higher education institutions here. We had invited all four of our HBCUs because they are making history now. (applause) I first want to introduce Aminta Breaux, my dear, dear friend, Bowie State University Bulldogs. Now, the next fellow I'm introducing is not [from] a historically black college, but it is a big college. It is the flagship college, it also just happens to be the college from which I graduated. Darryll Pines, the President of University of Maryland, College Park. If you will look [at] the list, one of our speakers was a guy named John Slaughter, who headed up the National Science Foundation and was president of the University of Maryland, College Park, the first African-American president. He's on that list. So, I hope you look at that list. We invited David Wilson from Morgan State [University] – a wonderful, wonderful school – Anthony John from Coppin State, and there are many, every day, actions they take that will affect America's history, Black history, and hopefully rekindle the light of ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all –’ and clearly today, it would have been all men and all women, irrespective of color, race, nationality, you know, any of those other arbitrary and irrelevant distinctions.

“Terrance’s wife, Candace, could not be with us. But I know that they’re with us in spirit. Simon, his son, with whom he was so extraordinarily proud, has a – lacrosse? Wrestling. Yeah, I wouldn’t want to wrestle him. Now, if you've seen Simon, who, like his father, he was built like a truck. (laughter) Well, you just don't want to mess with either he or his son. And Betty Richardson, what can I say about Betty Richardson? A lot, and luckily for the speaker, I won't say it all. Betty and Terrence were a team. Betty Richardson was about five years senior to me in service to the Fifth Congressional District. She worked for Gladys Spellman, so I kept her on. That was a Godly-inspired decision on my part, because she's been such an important part of my life. They worked on the planning committee, they coordinated the vendors, they arranged the speaking program, although they did call me up all the time and say, would you talk to A,B,C, or D? They did all of that work because they believed in the importance of gathering here today.

“Now, I'm going to introduce one, because I know this to be the case, but the rest of you – I want you all to stand along with Betty Hewlett, who has been to every one of these Black History breakfasts and if you've been with [her] at every one of these, please stand up with Betty Hewlett.(applause) Stand up, those of you who have been here for 45 [years]. Betty, where are you? There’s Betty. One loyal ‘stick with it’ person in the room. Now, all of those who were not born 45 years ago have [inaudible]. She and they understood that history is not simply a chronology of key dates, or a collection of faded words and dusty work. History is a constant practice of remembrance, lest we forget. That's what the Johnson brothers said, lest we forget, so critical – what the Jews are always talking about remembering, ‘Next year in Jerusalem –’ people who have been through the fires of desperation, of pain, of loss, of life, of injury. Chris Van Hollen is right, the President and too many in his party would want to have us forget and tragically, want our children not to know. Nancy Pelosi and I are of the same generation. We're just short of a year apart, and she and I both wear the Ukraine pin all every day because I think we remember. We remember the tragedy of the Holocaust. We remember the rationalization by Chamberlain of a dictator who wanted to hurt people. And because we remember that, we also know that Putin is like him.

“Please know that while this is my final year hosting this breakfast this year as your Congressman, this tradition will endure. (looks at Representative Glenn Ivey laughter and applause). Now, Angela [Alsobrooks] has left, but I’m going to remind her of that as well. Representing Maryland's Fifth District has been the greatest privilege of my life, one that I only received, as I've said before, because of the beloved community of which John Lewis spoke so passionately. I've told you this before, but it – the highlight of my career, I walked across and have walked across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, 17 times. Seven of those times I was holding John Lewis's hand. (applause) As we reflect on the role of Betty and Terrance and John Lewis and all those speakers, 100 years of Black history, securing that recognition a century ago was not easy. And very frankly, in the ‘50s, I saw the pain, I saw the scope, I saw the courage, I saw the batons, I saw the dogs, either in person or on television, mostly on television. And as a young kid, I was seized of the injustice [inaudible]. This President signed an executive order [that] said, ‘We are not for DEI.’

"That's what America is. It is diversity, it is fairness, equity, it is inclusion. That is America. I tell my colleagues, you ought to watch Hidden Figures. John Glenn said, ‘I'm not going unless she says it's okay to go.’ This past year, under this administration has made [it] painfully clear. How many of you were here when Tavis Smiley was our speaker in February of ’08, Tavis Smiley got up and he said, ‘If Barack Obama is elected a few months later in November, it will be the best of America.’ And then he presciently followed that statement with, ‘But I fear that if he's elected, we will see the worst in America.’

“A year ago, Donald Trump issued an executive order that called for the removal of exhibits, memorials, and monuments. Chris has spoken to that. Sandy Washington, who runs LifeStyles in Charles County, was my guest at the State of the Union on Tuesday. And after the speech was over, I went to get her and she was walking in the hallway on the third floor, and I took her hand and we walked over to my office. She was crying the whole way. She said, ‘It was so painful to hear my President speak, and he was so oblivious of the pain that exists in America today.’ They removed an exhibit – and Chris spoke of some – at the Netherlands American Military Cemetery about a fallen Black soldier buried there, Technician Fourth Class George H. Prewitt. Does that not disparage a great American, that he removed the statue of a Black soldier? How painful it had to be to be a black soldier, a hero, Tuskegee Airman, or anybody else, a Black soldier to come back and be confronted with segregation, to be confronted with disparagement, to be confronted with bigotry and prejudice? What would Elijah Cummings say to that? America is better than that. We're better than that. And we must be committed to be better than that.

“I'm not going to go through a whole lot of things I have here, because I've already spoken too long, and I want to hear from our speaker before 3 or 4 or 5 o’clock this afternoon (laughter).

"These are the times that are trying America's soul, and America's soul is being badly portrayed to the rest of the world. It is our responsibility to stop that. We shall overcome. I love that song. And in fact, we should have sung it here. Maybe we will at the end, because I think we need that same conviction now. I think we need that same remembrance now that there is something for us to overcome. Lest we forget. Now, we must remember: we must confront our past, we must carry our history. Our guest speaker today has devoted his life to that task. All the figures that are portrayed are speakers who made history. Nobody in America or around the world – you may say, ‘Well, Baldwin was pretty good, a number of others were pretty good as well.’ Nobody is portrayed that better and more cogently and more knowledgeably than our speaker. So, it's so important for me that we – that I, in my tenure here, [inaudible] having a speaker who himself is making history, but who knows the history as well as any of us in this room. Born in a working-class family in Mississippi, Dr. Glaude went on to receive a bachelor's degree from Morehouse College. What a famous historically Black college that is. How many extraordinary leaders had been at Morehouse. A master's degree from Temple University and a PhD from Princeton. The reason he went to Princeton, he couldn't get into the University of Maryland. (laughter) And I tell all my non-Maryland graduates, you know, you had to go somewhere. My wife went to a school named Bryn Mawr, which would have been part of Princeton, probably, or another school. And then she taught at Harvard, and I told her, ‘You couldn't get a job at Maryland?’ But that's where it goes.

"He also served, our speaker, as the inaugural chair of Princeton's African-American studies department for over 14 years. He's written numerous books. I'm sure some of you have read one or more of his books; insightful, knowledgeable, instructive. Over the years, he has published numerous books on the complex nature of race and religion in American society. We've talked a lot about this with these books, including a national bestseller, ‘Begin Again,’ about the legacy of James Baldwin. Dr. Glaude’s work focuses on the present, which is instructive remembering. But if we remember and don't execute on that which we know to prevent history, bad history, from repeating itself. He remains a prolific political commentator and outspoken advocate for social justice. I'm sure most of you have seen him on MSNBC or a number of other programs. If you've ever watched MSNBC or read Time Magazine, chances are you've come across one of his writings or one of his statements on TV. He knows what it means to carry history. Dr., thank you for being with us. We look forward to your remarks. Ladies and gentlemen, Dr. Glaude.”

Dr. Eddie S. Glaude Jr.

“I want to thank Sister Jackie and the Black History Month Committee. Congressman Ivey, Princeton Tiger, I appreciate you. Senator Van Hollen, thank you for your courage. Senator Alsobrooks, thank you for your witness. [Inaudible] name of a book in a room like this. But I must admit, I'm a country boy from Moss Point, Mississippi. Mother had her first baby in the ninth grade. Daddy delivered mail in Mississippi heat. And for me to hear Congressman Hoyer, introduce Juanita's baby like that. I can't wait to call my mom. I can’t wait to call her. (applause) I am so honored that you asked me to be the speaker today. And I was sitting there praying, asking God to guide me, to offer words that could measure up to your 45 years of service. I know I will fare. Such an honor. I want to thank everybody who set up the tables, who put the chairs under those tables, who brought your food to you, who will take the food away from you, who will break down the tables and chairs. We want to thank you for your invisible labor, that made this day possible.

“What have we witnessed over the last 45 years? Milestone events, like the election of the nation's first African American president, the first Black woman on the Supreme Court, a woman of color, a Black woman as Vice President, so many accomplishments across the political spectrum, in the private sector, every domain of American life. What have we witnessed? I don't want to take too much of your time, that's an old Baptist minister trait, so brace yourself. (laughter) What have we witnessed over these last 45 years, from the early days of Reaganism, to the dark times and the age of Trump? We have seen the country lurch back and forth as it struggles with its commitment to the ideal of racial equality. We have been haunted by ghosts, and we gather on this occasion this morning on the eve of the afternoon for the last time, in the 100 year of Black History Month, and in the 250th year of the nation against the backdrop of renewed hatreds and grievances, amid the reassertion that ours is and must remain a white republic. The ghost haunts still. I've always thought of Black History Month in two registers, Mr. Hoyer. Our story stands as a kind of counter programming. Where a different idea of freedom emerges from those who have had to bear the brunt of the country's contradictions, our story challenges the myths and fantasies that often undergird an easy American exceptionalism. It's not so easy to talk about American innocence when you take seriously the auction block or the lynching tree. We tell the story of freedom denied and delayed. In this sense, Black History Month offers resources for a different conception of who we take ourselves to be, one rooted in the tragic nature of our journey to now. As I think about Black History Month in this register, I'm reminded of something James Baldwin said, that ‘We must crack open the American image to see what it hides and obscures.’ Our story, in this sense, through an acceptance and confrontation with reality, aims to help us finally discover who we are as Americans. We get to do that. The question of national identity, alive, allied with the moral choice, looms large, bound up with the kind of story we tell about the nation. Oh, I'm going to tax your patience.

"The other register highlights the achievements of Black folk. It is, in some ways, a response to the perverse logic of those who believe themselves to be superior. It is not enough to dominate a people, not enough to condemn them to a life of toil or to the bottom of the well. Instead, one wipes the archive clean, denies any history of significance, erases any achievement of significance. As the German philosopher Hegel put it, ‘Africa is no historical part of the world.’ So, Black History Month dispels that lie by pointing to the historic achievements of the darker souls of this nation. Black History Month opens up our understanding of what we've done in spite of the world. We're more than objects of scorn and hate. We are more than wreckage and ruin left after the plunder. Again, I turn to Baldwin. ‘I have been, as the song says, ‘buked and scorned,’ he wrote. And I know that I always will be, but by God, in that darkness, which was the lot of my ancestors in my own state, what a mighty fire burned in that darkness of rage and degradation, that fine flying froth and mist of blood, through all that terror and all that helplessness, a living soul moved and refused to die.’ It is here that excellence takes root, in that resilience and grit, in that thick love, as Toni Morrison said. In that thick love, willing to sacrifice everything so that our babies might flourish, we tell our story of achievement, of Black excellence as an affirmation of the power of our interior lives, and a refutation of the lies that often justify our misery. With both senses, Black History Month offers what one scholar calls a fugitive pedagogy. An alternative scene of instruction where discarded knowledge help us to see the world more clearly and to imagine the world more justly.

“45 years, and here we are. We gather amid raging storms. After 250 years, after all that has been done and said, after all that you've seen, we must face the consequences of a country that insists that it remain white. By now, and given our history, one would hope that we would have honestly confronted the split at the heart of the nation, that the country often imagined itself at once as a beacon of freedom and as a white republic. And that doubleness, that split, has deposited a madness at the heart of the nation. The soil of this place has been soaked with blood because of that doubleness. Many Americans throughout our history have lost their sense of morality, and some folk today, a lot of white folk, have lost their damn minds because of it. (laughter) Because they are to believe the country must be white, or had to bear the brunt of that belief's implications, we should know that. But here we are. With every anniversary of the nation's founding, the divided soul of America, this idea of a beacon of freedom and a white republic is experiencing the convulsions around race that threaten to tear the country apart. As Americans celebrate 250 years of existence, we are faced with the resurgence of white nationalism. Panic has grabbed hold of millions of Americans as they fret about the so-called Great Replacement among other things, and that panic has led many to believe that the primary purpose of Donald Trump's Administration is to take back the country for them. Trumpism, among the many things that it is that aspires to be a restorative project. It aims to reclaim an American past where white people are at the center, the standard bearers, the measure for what is truly American. And in this vision, in this vision, the diversity of the nation is an ancillary feature of the American story. Ellis Island, a minor plot. These Americans want to turn back the clock to ensure a future for the country that looks like what they desire. Sentimentality and rage rest at the heart of this lurching back and forth between attempts to address racial injustice and the denials that racial injustice exists at all. Conscience pricked by the realization of cruelty in our midst often stirred moments of reform and attempts to repent for the country's sins.

"Americans engage in the mortification of the flesh. Speaker of the House, Madame Speaker, you have seen images of dogs, sicced on children, marching in Birmingham over, clutching over pearls. A video of George Floyd crying out for his mama as he lay dying with the police officers, knee on his neck. ‘Oh, that's not who we are.’ Children crying in an immigration detention center, separated from their parents, or crying as moms are arrested by ICE officers outside of this school, are examples of behavior and practices according to some, that fail to align with the storybook version of America. But, in the face of public outrage and protesting, the country tries to repent and reassert its goodness, inherent goodness. ‘This is not who we are,’ we often hear politicians say. ‘This is not who we are,’ I hear my pundit friends say. White America sees its complicity and the cruelty and seeks absolution in its admission rather than a remedy for the cruelty. When that absolution is not given, when it's not forthcoming, and Black people continue to protest, and Brown people continue to demand justice, then resentment boils over. Cries of, ‘Enough’ are heard. ‘What else do you want?’ They ask us. Shots for the rule of law ring out, and then all hell breaks loose. Y'all didn't know I talked like this. (laughter) We see examples of this cycle of sentimentality and rage across American history. Think about the aims of Reconstruction, the ugliness of redemption, the moral power of the Black freedom movement of the mid 20th century, and the backlash that culminated in the election of Ronald Reagan, or the response to George Floyd's murder, and today's assault on all things covered by DEI. ‘An admission of guilt has been made,’ they say. ‘An acknowledgment of racism has been given. What else do you want?’ And then a segment of the country believes that should be enough. But pushed too hard, and like a spring coiled too tight, the country snaps back.


Hoyer Statement on Strikes Against Iran

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after the United States carried out strikes against Iran and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in an Israeli air strike:

“Today’s attack on Iran was an act of war. Its purported purpose, to stop Khamenei’s fanatical regime from committing further acts of terror, is defensible. Donald Trump’s unilateral, unconstitutional decision to go to war without congressional approval is not.

“The Constitution is clear: the decision to declare war is not and should not be in a single person’s hands. That is especially true of a President who has so frequently demonstrated his willingness to use deadly force even when other options are available.

“Congress has war powers for a reason. We must exercise them and constrain the President. If we do not, we cede our authority under Article I, Section 8.

“The Trump Administration has yet to share any coherent plan to ensure Khamenei isn’t replaced by yet another radical terrorist dictator. Brute force alone cannot overcome the Iranian threat and bring stability to the region. We replaced a regime in Iraq at a great cost of lives and treasure.

“Trump promised America ‘no new wars.’ Now, contrary to the Constitution’s constraints, he has brought us to the brink of another one. I pray for the safety of our men and women in uniform. Congress must act.”


LEADER JEFFRIES ON NPR: “THE WAR POWERS RESOLUTION WOULD REQUIRE IMMEDIATE TERMINATION OF ANY ADDITIONAL MILITARY ACTION”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on NPR’s Morning Edition, where he made clear that Donald Trump launched massive and ongoing military operations against Iran without the authorization of Congress, and Democrats remain committed to compelling a vote on a War Powers Resolution when Congress returns.

EMILY KWONG: Leader Jeffries, welcome back to All Things Considered.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you for having me on.

EMILY KWONG: First, what is your reaction to reports of Ayatollah Khamenei’s death, and what does it mean for security in the region?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I’m not going to shed any tears as it relates to his death. He’s brutalized his own people and built an Iran that is the largest state sponsor of terror in the world. But what comes next is unclear because the Trump administration has not been able to articulate a plan, one, to ensure that U.S. forces are not entangled in a forever war in the Middle East, which we know would be a disaster. And this notion of regime change has never been successful, as most recently indicated by its failure in Iraq, its failure in Libya and its failure in Afghanistan.

EMILY KWONG: What would a War Powers Resolution do if passed? You’ve been talking about this for a while now. Just help us understand how it could change the situation on the ground at this point.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, the resolution would require that Donald Trump immediately terminate the use of any U.S. armed forces from any hostilities against Iran or any part of its government or military, unless that is explicitly authorized by a declaration of war that comes from the United States Congress. That’s, of course, consistent with what is required by the Constitution. And it’s required by Constitution because the President, on matters of war and peace, is supposed to make the case to the American people, which we believe he has failed to make at this point to justify or risk another entanglement in a failed forever foreign war. So the resolution would require immediate termination of any additional military action absent the President making his case to the American people.

EMILY KWONG: How will you convince enough of your colleagues in Congress to vote for this, including those who perhaps support some kind of military action in Iran?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, it’s a bipartisan resolution that has been introduced by Congressman Khanna and Congressman Massie. We believe we will secure some additional Republican support, but we’re working on that right now. We’ll have a Caucus meeting tomorrow—on Sunday—to discuss it. We know there will be strong support for it within the House Democratic Caucus and strong opposition to what Donald Trump has done in this particular instance or moving forward. But we have a few days to be able to try to get to the 218 votes necessary to ensure that the resolution passes.

EMILY KWONG: This is all happening amid weeks of negotiations with Iran. So what do you wish the Trump administration had done instead? Because as you said in a statement earlier this week, Iran should be, quote, aggressively confronted for human rights abuses, threats to allies and more.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Yeah, that aggressive confrontation, in my view, should involve strong diplomacy coupled with sanctions, as were very successful under the Obama administration and being able to constrain Iran’s nuclear program. This was not an issue until Donald Trump walked away from the Iran nuclear agreement, and now has brought us to the brink of a possible war in the Middle East. So aggressive diplomacy coupled by aggressive sanctions is the better course of action. And unfortunately, we’ve not seen this from this administration which risks entanglement in another failed forever foreign war.

EMILY KWONG: So to you, the only solution, the only way forward, is to de-escalate? Would it be responsible to walk away after the U.S. and Israel started this though?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, that’s going to be a question for the administration to have to answer. They’ve gotten us into this situation. But what we do know is that further military action, you cannot engage in successful regime change or change the conditions on the ground simply with air superiority by the military. Right? That became clear in Afghanistan and that became clear in Iraq. It will also be the case in Iran. So disengagement at this point, at least from further military action, absent getting explicit authorization from the United States Congress, as per the Constitution, is the next course of action that needs to be taken.

EMILY KWONG: The U.S. and Israel appear to be working in lockstep here, and it is an alliance that is fundamentally based on security, right? So I wonder, in this moment, how do you feel about the state of the U.S.-Israel relationship and what it means for our collective safety?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I think what needs to happen, and obviously in the region, Israel’s an ally, Jordan’s an ally and Egypt’s an ally. I think as it relates to the Iranian question, we’ve got to handle our business as it relates to compliance with Article I of the Constitution and Congress only having the ability to declare war. As it relates to the broader dynamic in terms of Israel, the most significant question to get to a just and lasting peace, for instance, with the Palestinian people people is going to require a viable path to a two-state solution.

EMILY KWONG: When it comes to Iran, if Trump’s stated goal is truly regime change, then how much responsibility does the U.S. have going forward?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, the American people believe that our taxpayer dollars should be spent at this moment in time to actually make life more affordable for everyday Americans in an environment where the cost of living is out of control, where Donald Trump promised to lower costs on day one. Costs haven’t gone down, costs have gone up. He’s spending taxpayer dollars in ways that are offensive to the American people, including creating a $75 billion ICE slush fund so they could brutalize and in some cases kill American citizens. And now we’re seeing the potential use of taxpayer dollars to be spent in ways that will get us into a possible endless war. That’s not acceptable, and that’s not what the American people want to see.

EMILY KWONG: Last question. Leader Jeffries, what is your plan heading into this week when you go to Congress? What do you want to see done?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we’ll meet tomorrow as House Democrats working to secure the support necessary on our side and then continuing to have conversations with a handful of our Republican colleagues so we can actually successfully move this resolution at some point on Wednesday or Thursday.

EMILY KWONG: Democratic House Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, thank you for talking with us.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.

Full interview can be listened to here.

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Brownley Statement on U.S. Strikes on Iran

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) issued the following statement on the strikes against Iran:

“Donald Trump’s decision to launch strikes against Iran without Congressional authorization is a blatant violation of the Constitution and a dangerous abuse of executive power.

“This reckless escalation comes after his unilateral withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal. He has never presented a coherent strategy to confront Iran’s malign activities. As a result, the United States and our allies are less safe today.

“Preemptive U.S. military action against Iran not only endangers our troops, it risks further destabilizing an already volatile region and igniting a broader conflict. By launching these strikes, Donald Trump has thrust the United States into war without approval from Congress. These strikes are outside the scope of his authority and put our nation and our allies at serious risk.

“Iran’s regime represses its own people, sponsors terrorism, fuels regional violence, and poses real threats to U.S. interests and our allies. But those realities do not erase the Constitution or grant any President the power to sidestep Congress.

“The American people do not want another open-ended war. Congress must assert its constitutional authority immediately.”

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Whip Clark Statement on Trump Administration Strikes on Iran

MALDEN, MA – Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) issued the following statement:

“Donald Trump campaigned on the promise of ‘no new wars.’ Under the cloak of night, without congressional authorization or even a clear rationale, he broke that vow to launch a massive military operation against Iran.

“Iran’s violations of human rights and sponsorship of global terror are well documented. But our Constitution is clear – the power to declare war lies with Congress. Trump has refused to seek authorization from the People’s House before rushing into another military conflict in the Middle East. All while acknowledging his actions pose grave danger to our service members.

“Families do not want another war. They want a reasonable cost of living. They want health care they can afford. They want an end to ICE’s terror in their neighborhoods. And they do not want their sons and daughters placed in harm’s way by a reckless President. The people of this country deserve better.

“Speaker Johnson should call the House into session immediately to vote on a bipartisan War Powers Resolution. If not, House Democrats will force a vote. Now is the time to stand with the American people and the Constitution.”

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Statement from Congressman Kennedy on Trump Administration Strikes on Iran

Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) released the following statement:

“Last night, Donald Trump launched pre-emptive military strikes against Iran without Congressional authorization or making the case to the American people.

“Iran is a dangerous, murderous regime. However, the Constitution is clear: Congress declares war. Trump chose escalation over diplomacy, putting American lives at risk in a volatile region.

“Our service members deserve better than to be sent to war without a plan, without Congressional authorization, and without the will of the American people.”


REP. MULLIN’S STATEMENT ON TRUMP’S ATTACK AGAINST IRAN

This morning, Americans woke up to find out we are at war with Iran – an illegal war that could escalate wildly and has put our service members in harm’s way. This military action has not been justified or explained to the American people, nor approved by Congress.

The Iranian regime is a destabilizing force in the region. It must be held accountable for the violence it inflicts on its own people and grave human rights violations, and prevented from ever having a nuclear weapon. However, we can support the Iranian people and put extreme pressure on Iran’s leadership without starting another regime change war that puts our troops at risk.

The Constitution gives Congress the sole power to declare war, not the President. Next week I will support a war powers resolution to the House Floor to remove U.S. troops from hostilities with Iran absent congressional approval.

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Congressman Krishnamoorthi Statement on Trump Administration Strikes on Iran

SCHAUMBURG, IL – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), senior member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and the House Oversight Committee, issued the following statement:

“By ignoring the limits of his own constitutional power, Donald Trump is risking the lives of Americans in an unauthorized war with no end in sight.

It’s clear — the American people do not want war. The President’s reckless decision to strike Iran puts our service members in harm’s way, jeopardizes regional stability, and risks drawing the United States into yet another forever conflict. By calling this action a war, the President has made clear that he has once again overstepped his authority. The power to go to war is reserved for Congress and Congress alone. As such, I will be voting in support of the War Powers Resolution to rein in this unaccountable President.

In the meantime, I am praying for the safety of our service members.”


Landsman Statement After the U.S. Attacks the Iranian Regime

Cincinnati, OH – Today, Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH-01) released the following statement after the United States launched an attack on the Iranian regime:

The U.S. is destroying Iran’s missiles and bombs to stop them from taking more lives.

These strikes are targeting military infrastructure – with warnings to Iranian civilians to take shelter away from these military targets.

If it wasn’t for the regime, the region may very well know peace.

For decades, the regime has caused mayhem and bloodshed through Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, the Houthis in Yemen – all while the people of Iran have suffered.

When the Iranian people stood up to protest the regime last month, the regime murdered tens of thousands of its own people.

I want a lasting peace for everyone in the region – from the Iranian people to the Lebanese, Palestinians, Syrians, Iraqis, Jordanians, and Israelis. I hope these targeted strikes on the Iranian regime’s military assets ends the regime’s mayhem and bloodshed and makes way for this lasting peace in the region.

Thank you to our brave service members who are leading this effort, and I pray their work will finally free the people of Iran and those in the region from more violence or war.

May peace emerge from all of this.

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Larsen Joins Leader Jeffries in Statement on Iran Strikes

Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) joined Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the New Democrat Coalition's statements on U.S. strikes against Iran.

Leader Jeffries' released the following statement:

"Overnight, Donald Trump announced the start of massive and ongoing military operations against Iran. The framers of the United States Constitution gave Congress the sole power to declare war as the branch of government closest to the American people.

"Iran is a bad actor and must be aggressively confronted for its human rights violations, nuclear ambitions, support of terrorism and the threat it poses to our allies like Israel and Jordan in the region. However, absent exigent circumstances, the Trump administration must seek authorization for the preemptive use of military force that constitutes an act of war.

"Donald Trump failed to seek Congressional authorization prior to striking Iran. Instead, the President’s decision to abandon diplomacy and launch a massive military attack has left American troops vulnerable to Iran’s retaliatory actions. We pray for the safety of the men and women of the U.S. military as they have been put into harm’s way in a dangerous theater of war.

"If Iran’s nuclear program was “completely and totally obliterated” by the military strikes in June 2025, as Donald Trump boldly proclaimed, there should be no need to strike them now. Equally troublesome, the advancement of security and stability in the Middle East requires more than military might, as we painfully discovered in several failed wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Trump administration must explain itself to the American people and Congress immediately, provide an ironclad justification for this act of war, clearly define the national security objective and articulate a plan to avoid another costly, prolonged military quagmire in the Middle East.

"The War Powers Resolution introduced by Rep. Ro Khanna and Rep. Thomas Massie demands that President Trump remove U.S. forces from hostilities in Iran absent Congressional authorization. House Democrats remain committed to compelling a vote on this resolution upon our return."

The New Democrat Coalition released the following statement:

“The Constitution explicitly gives Congress and only Congress the authority and heavy responsibility to send our nation to war. We have not seen any intelligence indicating an imminent threat that would justify risking the lives of American servicemembers. Speaker Johnson must immediately reconvene the House so that we may vote on a war powers resolution.

“We have no false impressions of Iran's regime. They repress their people at home, sponsor terror campaigns against the U.S. and our allies, and bolster violent insurgencies abroad. We cannot allow these realities to cloud the serious analysis and debate that must take place before we engage in war.

“We are fully confident in the capabilities of our military and servicemembers, and are praying for their safety and success. We also know the cost of a prolonged conflict with no defined conclusion. The American people do not want another endless war. They don’t want more flag-draped coffins, more of our brave young men and women needlessly sent into harm’s way without a clear purpose or strategy.

“Congress must rise to the moment and exercise its constitutional duties to serve as a check on the President before more troops are put in harm's way."

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Larson Statement on Overnight Attack Against Iran

East Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after the United States and Israel attacked Iran, and President Trump threatened to overthrow the Iranian regime. Larson is a cosponsor of a resolution in the House to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran and announced on Thursday that he would vote to block the Trump Administration from unilaterally taking the United States to war with Iran when Congress comes back into session next week.

“This declaration of war by President Trump is yet another abomination of the rule of law, in direct violation of Article I of the Constitution, and the authority of Congress to declare war,” said Larson. “Congress needs to take this up before we send our young men and women into harm’s way. I am calling on Speaker Johnson to immediately reconvene the House, instead of canceling workdays at Trump’s behest. We will vote on a resolution next week to remove our Armed Forces from hostilities against Iran and call upon the President to come before Congress to make his case. This president has broken yet another campaign promise to stop endless wars all over the world. This is what an authoritarian ruler does, because he believes he is above the law and the Constitution.”


MENA Chairman Lawler Applauds Operation “Epic Fury”

Washington, D.C. – 2/28/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, released the following statement regarding the President’s decision to strike Iran as part of Operation “Epic Fury” and combat the Ayatollah’s aggression in the region:

“For months, the Trump Administration worked to negotiate a diplomatic solution with the Iranian regime to end their nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile program, and funding of terrorism throughout the region. But time and time again, the regime offered no concessions and unrealistic demands.

I support the President’s decision to strike Iran. No longer will the Ayatollah be allowed to engage in terrorism abroad and violent repression of the Iranian people at home. With this strike, the Iranian people will finally be able to determine the future of their country after 47-years of tyranny and oppression.

As we continue to monitor Operation “Epic Fury,” I pray for the safety of our troops.”

As Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, Lawler has consistently advocated for a return to maximum pressure against the Iranian regime and for strong, coordinated action to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and destabilizing the region.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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MENA Chairman Lawler Releases Statement on Death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei

Washington, D.C. – 2/28/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, released the following statement regarding news of the death of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader:

“For years, I have supported a maximum pressure strategy against the Iranian regime, holding it accountable for its terrorism, pursuit of nuclear weapons, ballistic missile development, and brutal repression of its own people.

For decades, Ayatollah Khamenei led a regime that openly chanted “Death to America,” armed and funded proxies responsible for the deaths of American service members, targeted our allies, including Israel, and violently suppressed Iranians - especially women and young girls - seeking basic freedoms and human rights. His leadership was defined by aggression abroad and oppression at home and today, it has officially ended. The world is safer as a result of his death. We now have a chance for lasting peace in the Middle East.”

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Rep. Mike Levin Honors Rob Howard as February 2026 Constituent of the Month

Rob Howard

Oceanside, CA— Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) recognized Rob Howard, an outstanding Oceanside resident, six-year Navy veteran, and recipient of this year's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award, as his February 2026 Constituent of the Month.

A dedicated and compassionate leader, Mr. Howard is a champion for equality, expanding access to opportunity, and strengthening public health initiatives throughout Oceanside and North County. His work has focused on addressing disparities, connecting families to critical resources, and ensuring historically underserved communities have a voice.

Mr. Howard is especially passionate about investing in the next generation. Through mentorship, educational outreach, and civic engagement efforts, he empowers young people to develop leadership skills, embrace accountability, and pursue higher education with confidence. By creating supportive networks and meaningful pathways to achievement, he helps youth see themselves as capable leaders and changemakers in their own communities.

His unwavering dedication continues to uplift Oceanside residents, strengthen neighborhood connections, and create lasting opportunities for families across the region.

See below for Rep. Levin’s statement recognizing Rob Howard in the Congressional Record:

“Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Rob Howard as my February 2026 Constituent of the Month.

“I have known Mr. Howard for years. He is not only an outstanding individual, but someone who supports and fights for his community in every way imaginable. It has been an honor to work with him, specifically on nuclear waste issues and the future of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating System here in California’s 49th Congressional District.

“Rob’s commitment to public service and to lifting up everyone—not just a select few—throughout Oceanside and North County has left a lasting impact on so many. He works tirelessly to ensure that members of his community have the tools they need to succeed, no matter the situation they come from.

“I know he does not do this work for recognition, but it is truly an honor to select him for this distinction, and our district is better off because of his work.”

ABOUT THE CONSTITUENT OF THE MONTH PROGRAM:

Rep. Levin’s Constituent of the Month program recognizes outstanding North County San Diego and South Orange County residents who have gone above and beyond to help their neighbors, give back to their community, and represent the best of our country. Rep. Levin’s January 2026 Constituent of the Month was John Resnick, leader of four acclaimed restaurants, recipient of two Michelin Stars, and winner of the 2025 North County Steward Award. The December 2025 Co-Constituents of the Month were Rev. Jason Coker and Rev. Jenell Coker, co-lead pastors of The Oceanside Sanctuary.

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Rep. Mike Levin's Statement on the Strikes Against Iran

Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) released the following statement on the U.S. strikes against Iran:

“In the dark of night, President Trump announced that the United States had begun ‘major combat operations’ in Iran, describing a ‘massive and ongoing operation.’ Those are not the words that describe a limited strike to repel an imminent threat or a sudden attack. They describe sustained warfare.

“Article I of the Constitution gives Congress, not the President, the power to declare war. A President may act to repel an imminent attack, but launching an open-ended campaign requires congressional authorization. If this operation is truly massive and ongoing, it cannot rest solely on unilateral executive authority.

“We pray for the brave service members placed in harm’s way. Preventing Iranian nuclear proliferation is a serious objective. The Iranian regime continues to be a threat to American national security—and the safety of its own people—as it has been since 1979. But national security goals must be pursued within constitutional limits.

“Congress must be brought into this decision immediately. There must be a prompt War Powers vote so that the American people, through their elected representatives, determine whether our nation goes to war.

“When we take that vote, I will oppose a sustained war in Iran. I have no greater responsibility as an elected representative than deciding whether to send service members into harm’s way. I believe that we can support Iranians’ struggle for democracy without initiating a regional war. This is the type of war that Donald Trump explicitly said he was opposed to during his presidential campaign. Once again, the American people have found out that we cannot trust Donald Trump.”


Rep. Liccardo Statement on U.S. Strikes in Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sam Liccardo (CA-16) released this statement today following U.S. strikes on Iran: “Every President who sends our women and men into battle has the constitutional and moral duty to clearly identify and explain the objective of war.

A dictatorial and murderous regime governs Iran. Yet Trump's war on Iran painfully reflects an ignorance about the cost of war, and a myopia about those objectives.

Trump justified last year's attacks on Iran by claiming that he "obliterated" Iran's nuclear capabilities; if true, he wouldn't need this year's war to do so. Trump urges regime change, yet no mere bombing campaign—no matter how horrific or brutal—can deliver that outcome. In Iraq, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and even Venezuela, history shows that regime change requires a far more protracted engagement than the American public will support.

Instead, our troops, our allies, and innocent Iranian civilians will suffer. Many will die.


Rep. Nancy Mace Issues Statement on Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 28, 2026) — Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) released the following statement regarding the attack on Iran:

“The Iranian regime has slaughtered thousands of its own people in recent days, men, women, and children, whose only crime was asking for freedom. Tyrants and terrorists everywhere should take note: the world is watching. History is watching. We must not forget what is happening in Iran. We must not turn a blind eye. History does not forgive those who look away from massacre.”

SEE POST HERE.

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Statement from Congresswoman Nancy Mace on the Death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 28, 2026) - Congresswoman Nancy Mace issued the following statement on the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei:

"The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei marks the end of a dark era defined by repression, extremism, and hostility toward the United States and our allies.

"Under Khamenei’s rule, the Iranian regime funded terrorism across the Middle East, violently suppressed its own people, and denied women and girls their most basic freedoms. Protesters were imprisoned, tortured, and executed for daring to demand basic freedoms and democracy. His leadership prolonged suffering at home and instability abroad.

"Today is not about celebration. It is about accountability and moral clarity.

"The Iranian people, especially the courageous women who have led the fight for freedom, deserve a government that respects human rights, values peace, and chooses opportunity over oppression.

"America stands firmly with those seeking liberty and will always stand for freedom over tyranny."

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Malliotakis Statement on USA's Action to End Iran's Reign of Terror

(NEW YORK, NY) - Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis released the following statement regarding U.S. Military action in Iran.

"The United States has taken decisive and courageous action against Iran to defend our citizens, interests, and partners after the leading state sponsor of terrorism would not negotiate in good faith or commit to diplomacy over nuclear capabilities.

Iran is responsible for attacks that have killed American civilians and service members and its continuous declarations of “Death to America” while pursuing advanced nuclear capabilities threaten the United States and our allies.

The United States, the Middle East and the world will be a safer and more peaceful place when the oppressive and murderous Iranian regime is eliminated. May God bless our troops as they conduct this courageous and noble mission."


Díaz-Balart Expresses Solidarity with the Iranian People and Commends President Trump’s Maximum Pressure National Security Strategy

MIAMI, FL – House Appropriations Committee Vice Chair and Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, the Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP), Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), issued the following statement commending President Trump’s decisive leadership in launching major combat operations against the Iranian regime, the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism.

“For nearly five decades, Iranians have endured repression, violence, and torture at the hands of the evil Iranian regime–a regime that exports terrorism, brutally suppresses dissent at home, and openly threatens the United States and our allies.

I commend President Donald Trump for standing in solidarity with the brave Iranian people, who continue to demand freedom, dignity, and basic human rights despite ruthless crackdowns. Hundreds of protesters have been killed simply for exercising those rights.

Americans and the world are safer because of President Trump’s leadership and maximum pressure strategy, including the removal of terrorist Qasem Soleimani and last year’s decisive action to obliterate Iran’s nuclear sites–demonstrating that deterrence and strength, not appeasement, will lead to a safer and more secure future for all.”


Rep. McClain Delaney Issues Statement on the Trump Administration's Strikes in Iran

Today, Congresswoman April McClain Delany posted the following statement:

"I have been very clear that Iran must never obtain a nuclear weapon – as the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism it is in the security interests of the United States and our allies that Iran never possess the world’s most deadly and destructive technology.

"But under the Constitution, only Congress can declare war. Trump has not made his case to Congress or to the American people explaining why this action is justified and the consequences. Without that transparency and authorization - and considering Trump's consistent pattern of unlawful and reckless behavior - there is no reason to trust any decision Trump makes that could endanger American lives, including our brave service members carrying out this mission, without congressional approval. Congress must reassert our constitutional authority immediately."

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For updates, follow Rep. McClain Delaney at @RepAprilDelaney.

Congresswoman April McClain Delaney was elected in 2024 to serve Maryland’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses all or part of Montgomery, Frederick, Washington, Allegany and Garrett Counties. In Congress, McClain Delaney is focused on improving US competitiveness and innovation, protecting our natural environment and championing policies that represent the values and priorities of Maryland’s 6th District.


CONGRESSWOMAN MCCOLLUM STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S UNLAWFUL MILITARY STRIKES ON IRAN

SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s unlawful military strikes on Iran:

“Today, President Trump ordered unlawful U.S. military strikes on Iran. Make no mistake, President Trump has unilaterally taken our nation to war. This military action was launched without Congressional approval and with no imminent threat posed by Iran to the United States.

“Just days ago, President Trump stood before the American people and delivered his State of the Union Address. If he believed there was a clear and present danger to the United States, as president, he had the duty to our nation to lay out his rationale about why military action was necessary and to ask Congress to pass an Authorization for Use of Military Force– just as President Bush did before the Iraq War. President Trump utterly failed to do so, which is nothing less than an affront to our Constitution and the American people.


Congressman Morgan McGarvey on Trump’s Strikes on Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 28, 2026) – Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey released the following statement after Trump called for regime change and warned of potential US casualties in war with Iran:

“President Trump is starting yet another war in the Middle East without the approval of Congress or the American people, putting our troops – who are our neighbors, our family members, and our kids – in harm’s way and spending billions on regime change in another country, all while Americans can barely afford their expenses at home.

“Speaker Johnson must reconvene the House immediately so Congress can vote on the Iran War Powers Resolution. I will vote to protect our troops and stop Trump's illegal war.”

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Congressman Morgan McGarvey represents Kentucky’s Third Congressional District, including Louisville and Jefferson County. He serves on the House Veterans Affairs, Small Business, and Budget Committees.


House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Meeks Issues Statement on U.S.-Israel Strikes on Iran

Washington, D.C. - Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued a statement on the strikes against Iran:

“The Trump administration’s strikes against Iran represent a reckless abuse of the president’s power, threatening to pull the United States into yet another open-ended Middle East war without clear justifications or a defined strategic end state. Congress was not consulted, nor was it given the opportunity to authorize the use of force. This is an unacceptable breach of its constitutional role.

“The goals laid out by President Trump -- ending Iran’s destabilizing nuclear weapons program, dismantling its missile arsenal, crushing its proxy network, and regime change -- are not the objectives of a limited strike. They are the objectives of a prolonged war. Military force can degrade Iran’s capabilities, but without a defined end state and real diplomacy, these objectives invite escalation. We are already seeing retaliation against U.S. forces and our partners. When we place American service members in harm’s way, we owe them defined objectives and credible strategy. The United States does not have a good record of forcing regime change or diminishing Tehran’s malicious behavior long-term through military force.

“The administration owes Congress and the American people a direct accounting: what is the threat, what are the objectives, what is the exit strategy, and what will it cost? Instead, we are seeing evasion at a moment that demands transparency. Even the Bush administration provided far more transparency on its effort to go to war with Iraq, and that administration’s willingness to seek Congressional authorization now stands as a higher standard than this president has met.

“I call on Speaker Johnson to call Congress back to Washington to immediately vote on authorization of Trump’s war of choice. Republicans and Democrats alike owe that to the American people. The president has launched an unauthorized war, and Congress must now decide whether to sanction it.”


Statement by Congressman Rob Menendez on Trump's Unauthorized Attack on Iran

“No president should be able to unilaterally commit America to a war without authorization from Congress or the consent of the American people. And it is clear, Americans do not want to send our sons and daughters to go to war with Iran.

“That is exactly why Congress needs to immediately reassert its war powers.

“We can support Iranian democracy without starting a war that no one wants. Congress must pass a war powers resolution and stop Trump from committing us to yet another war.”


THOMPSON RELEASES STATEMENT ON U.S. STRIKES AGAINST IRAN

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) released the following statement today in response to the President’s strikes against Iran:

“In the dead of night, President Trump started an unauthorized, unconstitutional war with Iran. As a combat veteran, I know the terrible realities of war and I am deeply opposed to any unprovoked strikes carried out without Congressional authorization — authorization that is explicitly required by our constitution.


Moskowitz Calls for Congressional Briefing on Iran Negotiations Amid Rising Tensions

WASHINGTON, DC — Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and ongoing diplomatic talks with the Islamic Republic of Iran, Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) – House Committee on Foreign Affairs Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Intelligence – called on the Department of State and Department of Defense to provide Members of Congress with a full classified briefing on the status of negotiations and the broader regional security situation.

Moskowitz has requested the classified briefing take place by Tuesday, March 3, 2026. To date, the Trump Administration has only briefed the “Gang of 8,” not the full body of Congress. Text of the letter can be found here or below.

“Dear Secretary Rubio and Secretary Hegseth,

I am writing to request a classified briefing for Members of Congress on the status of negotiations with the Islamic Republic of Iran and the evolving security situation in region. Members, particularly on relevant House Committees, have been closely tracking public developments but have yet to receive any direct communication from the administration.

The latest round of U.S.-Iran talks regarding diplomatic engagement and nuclear-related concerns concluded with an understanding that both parties will continue to engage. The Omani Foreign Affairs Minister reportedly stated that technical-level discussions will be held in Vienna next week. While negotiations continue, the broader security situation is extremely tense. U.S. forces have positioned significant naval and air assets in the Middle East and there have been repeated public warnings of the potential for military action should diplomacy fail. Additionally, multiple nations have escalated their threat assessment for the region – issuing travel warnings to their citizens and evacuating embassies.

In light of the increasingly sensitive situation in the region and Congress’s authorities related to treaties and declarations of war, I request a briefing be provided to the relevant committees on the status of negotiations with the Islamic Republic of Iran, diplomatic coordination with allies and partners, and a security assessment of risk factors in the region. Due to the gravity of the situation and the potential implications for U.S. national security and regional stability, I request the briefing occur on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to a comprehensive briefing from your agencies and remain committed to supporting responsible and informed oversight of U.S. foreign policy.

Sincerely,

Jared Moskowitz

Member of Congress”

Moskowitz is a senior member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, where he serves as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight & Intelligence. Throughout his time in Congress, he has consistently emphasized the importance of preserving the independence of the legislative branch and ensuring that matters of war and peace receive appropriate congressional oversight.


Statement from Congressman Moulton on U.S. Military Action in Iran

SALEM, MA - Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) has issued the following statement regarding military action conducted in Iran this morning by American military forces.

"The two basic problems with Bush’s War in Iraq were that it was based on a lie and there was no plan for what comes next. It’s hard to argue both are not true today. WMD in Iraq was a lie. 'Obliterating' Iran’s nuclear facilities was a lie. The troops have to be wondering today, 'What lies are we being told now?' When you’re asked to risk your life for something, the most fundamental thing you want is the truth.

"Bluster and Bomb is not a strategy. Trump says that he wants a nuclear deal, but the only reason we don’t have one is because he tore it up. Trump’s utter stupidity will get Americans killed, and it’s long past time for Republicans in Congress to let us follow our Constitutional duty and vote on whether, for the second time in twenty-five years, we should risk a lot of American lives for a lot of lies."

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Nadler Statement on Trump's Military Action in Iran

Today, Representative Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) released the following statement on Trump's military action in Iran:

"Overnight, Trump started an illegal war without approval from Congress and against the wishes of the American people.

"This war will bring needless death and destruction – risking American lives and civilian casualties.

"This is a pure war of aggression. Iran poses no imminent threat. And by insisting on regime change, it promises to start a long war like the war in Iraq. If Donald Trump wanted to go to war, he should have gone to Congress first and convince the American people and their representatives that the cause is worthy of the expenditure of American blood and treasure.

"Trump campaigned on ending forever wars, and he may just have started one.

"These attacks are not about Iran’s nuclear capabilities. How do we know?

"A) Because the President said we had previously obliterated it.

"B) Because the Iranians have continually said that they didn’t want a nuclear weapon and were willing to negotiate an inspection regime that would guarantee that.

"C) Because we have a record of the Obama administration successfully negotiating a nuclear deal with Iran that included robust inspections and safeguards against the development of a nuclear weapon, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which Trump tore up upon taking office. Just because Trump failed to secure an agreement of his own, doesn’t mean the United States should go to war.

"Furthermore, by ignoring Congress Trump is continuing his long march toward authoritarianism. This is yet another presidential usurpation of power leading to an authoritarian regime. Because only Congress has the power to declare war, and it is now up to us to stop it.

"Congress must do everything in our power to stop Trump from continuing his illegal war. We must bring up a War Powers resolution immediately. I will vote to pass the resolution to bring an end to these illegal attacks, and I urge my colleagues to do the same."


Neal Statement on President Trump’s Unauthorized Military Actions in Iran

Springfield, MA – Today, Congressman Richard E. Neal released the following statement after President Trump conducted unauthorized military strikes in Iran.

“In 2018, President Trump pulled the United States out of the agreement that limited Iran’s ability to pursue nuclear weapons and helped prevent an arms race in the Middle East. Today, he has launched an unauthorized strike on Iran, unnecessarily putting the lives of our men and women at risk.

“The American people deserve answers, which is why Congress must reassert its constitutionally mandated war power and debate this matter on its merits in plain view. Whether it be the operation that clearly failed to take out Iran’s nuclear capability, or the strikes in Venezuela that ousted a foreign leader with no clear military objective, I have consistently called on the President to seek authorization from Congress. The same holds true today.

“While nobody refutes the notion that the Iranian regime is a corrupt and repressive government that has committed countless human rights violations, the fact remains that the President must seek congressional approval and fully brief Congress on his objectives and justification. House Democrats plan to force a vote on a resolution next week to rein in the President’s military operations in Iran, and I fully intend to support it.

“I am praying for our service members who have been put in harm’s way. We cannot let another generation fight another endless war with no clear endgame. That is why Congress must fulfill its responsibility as a coequal branch of government and reaffirm its Article I authority.”


Congressman Neguse Statement On the Trump Administration’s Strikes on Iran

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joe Neguse issued the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s strikes on Iran:

“First and foremost, our constitution is crystal-clear: the decision to take our nation to war rests with Congress. Our framers designed the constitutional framework to ensure consequential issues of war would be fully debated by lawmakers before American service members are engaged in conflict abroad.

“Iran’s violations of human rights are well documented, and I’ve long stated that Iran — the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism — cannot be permitted to develop nuclear weapons. But I also share the deep concerns of many Americans about direct U.S. involvement in foreign wars.

“Put simply, President Trump’s reckless decision to once again initiate military action without congressional authorization is clearly unconstitutional. Speaker Johnson must reconvene the Congress — immediately — for a vote on the War Powers Resolution.

“I am praying for the safety of our troops, personnel, and Americans across the region. If any Coloradans are currently in the Middle East and need assistance in evacuating, we encourage you to please contact our district or Washington D.C. offices, where we have dedicated staff available to assist.”

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Rep. Norcross Releases Statement on Trump Administration’s Strikes on Iran

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s strikes on Iran.

“Last night, President Trump unilaterally ordered a military strike against Iran. For decades, the Iranian regime has posed a persistent threat to U.S. national security, beginning with the 1979 hostage crisis and continuing through its pursuit of nuclear weapons capabilities, its role as a leading global sponsor of terrorism, and its oppression of the Iranian people.

“In response to the recent U.S. strike, Iran has reportedly launched attacks on four of the thirteen U.S military bases in the region, where more than 40,000 U.S. service members are currently stationed. In June of last year, the President asserted that Operation Midnight Hammer had “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear program.

“The American people deserve to understand why this latest strike was undertaken, why it was initiated at this time, and what clear strategy exists to bring this situation to a responsible conclusion.

“Above all, we must ensure the protection of our troops abroad and safeguard religious institutions and vulnerable communities here at home from potential retaliation. I am therefore calling for an immediate classified briefing to Congress to fully explain the rationale for this action and the path forward.”


Pingree Statement on Trump’s War in Iran

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) released the following statement on President Trump’s unauthorized war in Iran:

“Early this morning, President Trump launched a major attack on Iran and openly called for regime change—without consulting Congress and without seeking authorization from the American people’s elected representatives. That is a flagrant violation of the Constitution and a dangerous escalation that puts American service members, civilians in the region, and global stability at grave risk.

Republicans will inevitably try to downplay this action as something short of war. The President himself makes clear that is false. In his own words: 'The lives of courageous American heroes may be lost, and we may have casualties. That often happens in war.' When a president acknowledges casualties and calls it war, Congress cannot pretend otherwise.

The consequences are already unfolding. Iran has launched retaliatory strikes across the region. A U.S. Navy base in Bahrain has been hit. Airspace over the UAE and Qatar has been shut down. Iran-allied militias in Iraq have announced they will begin attacking American bases. Israelis are racing to bomb shelters. Civilians in Tehran are fleeing their homes. This is not a limited operation—this is a war, and it is spreading by the hour.

The President took this country into that war based on claims his own intelligence community has not confirmed. The New York Times reports this morning that Trump's central assertions about Iran's nuclear program—that it had restarted, that Iran had enough material for a bomb within days, that it had missiles capable of reaching the United States—are either false or unproven. We were told similar things before Iraq. We know how that ended. The American people are still living with the consequences of wars launched without accountability or an endgame. We cannot repeat those mistakes.

My colleagues have introduced a bipartisan War Powers Resolution, and Democrats were already planning to force a vote the moment Congress reconvenes next week. Speaker Johnson should call the House back to Washington immediately to take up that vote. Congress must reassert its constitutional authority, halt unauthorized military action, and make clear that no president—of either party—has the power to drag this nation into war alone."

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Raskin Statement on Trump’s Unconstitutional Military Strike on Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Jamie Raskin (MD-08) released the following statement after President Trump launched a military campaign in Iran without Congressional approval, violating the Constitution and putting the lives of American servicemembers and civilians across the Middle East at risk in an undeclared “regime change” war:

“The Framers provided in our Constitution that Congress must declare any war that our nation enters. They knew that Kings plunged their nations into wars of arrogance, deceit, distraction, plunder and intrigue without regard to the consequences for our soldiers, our people or anyone else. Our Framers insisted that the decision to put the lives of the people at risk be put in the hands of the representatives of the people who must carefully analyze and deliberate the staggering implications of going to war.

“Desperate to distract from the spectacular failure of his discredited and illegal tariffs, spiraling inflation in groceries and housing, the accelerating and shocking disclosures from the Epstein files and his collapsing poll numbers, the president who campaigned on keeping us out of regime-change ‘forever wars’ in the Middle East, like the savage Iraq and Afghanistan wars, just launched military strikes against Iran without any congressional declaration of war.

“The Iranian regime is, of course, a vicious theocratic tyranny like the brutal government in Saudi Arabia. The world must hold these antidemocratic and illiberal regimes accountable for their documented human rights violations against their own populations, their oppression of the rights of women and their malicious support for terrorism. We must also restore and reinvigorate the international instruments of nuclear nonproliferation and arms control that have been decimated by the Trump administration’s war on international law and the rules-based international order.

“To Speaker Johnson I say what every constitutional patriot in America is saying: bring the House back into session immediately so that we can vote on Reps. Thomas Massie (KY-04) and Ro Khanna’s (CA-17) bipartisan War Powers Resolution. Defenders of the Constitution on both sides of the aisle must come together to rein in the reckless and lawless actions of the would-be king. American lives and security depend on our Constitution being respected.”

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Rep. Sara Jacobs: Trump’s Iran Strikes Will Go Down as Biggest Foreign Policy Blunder in American History

After President Trump launched illegal and unauthorized strikes on Iran, Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) released the following statement:

“Donald Trump’s strikes on Iran will go down as one of the biggest foreign policy blunders in American history. He’s failed to learn from history that the United States has an abysmal track record of success for military adventures in the Middle East. He’s putting our service members and our country at immediate risk for retaliation, wasting billions of taxpayer dollars, and setting us up for another endless war – all for regime change, that in the end will likely backfire.

“Many of my colleagues are already trying to falsely justify these strikes as reasonable to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. This is a familiar hark back to the rhetoric before the Iraq War: exaggerating threats to justify armed intervention. The truth is that we had verifiable agreements to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon – and they were working. But President Trump withdrew from that deal, only to criticize the new reality that he created and bomb Iran anyway.

“Trump promised to start no new wars, and then he turned around and started a regime change war in Iran. For my generation and my community in San Diego, war isn’t abstract or an out of sight, out of mind issue – it’s real and we pay the human cost of it. That’s why I take matters of war and peace so seriously – and it’s part of why I came to Congress in the first place: to ensure someone here is thinking about these consequences when the President tries to illegally take our country to war. Only Congress can declare war, and yet we have not authorized this war, let alone received a proper intelligence briefing. Both the House and Senate must immediately return to Washington, D.C. to vote on war powers resolutions. The President cannot and should not take further unilateral action in Iran.”


Rep. Scholten Statement on U.S. Military Strikes in Iran

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) released the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s military strikes in Iran.

"The Iranian regime poses a profound threat to U.S. interests, Israel, our Gulf allies and partners, and global security. It remains the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, funding and directing violent proxy groups that have targeted American service members and destabilized the Middle East. At home, the regime has crushed peaceful protests with brutal repression, killing tens of thousands and imprisoning many more. Its continued pursuit of advanced nuclear capabilities only heightens these dangers, and it must not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.

These threats demand a serious response grounded in constitutional legitimacy. However, President Trump has launched a military operation in Iran without clear congressional authorization. The Constitution vests in Congress the authority to declare war, providing accountability in decisions of such consequence. We can and must respond to the Iranian regime with resolve, while upholding the rule of law.

In the coming days, the Administration must provide classified briefings detailing the basis for these actions and their objectives, scope, and risks, as well as the plan for the future. The President has a duty to come before Congress, present the intelligence, and make his case, ensuring Congress can fulfill its rightful role in matters of war and peace. The American people deserve no less."

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Rep. Sewell Statement on Trump Administration Strikes on Iran

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the Trump Administration's military strikes on Iran:

“Iran has oppressed their people and supported terrorism in the region for decades. This fact does not change the President’s obligations under the Constitution to work with Congress on military actions that put our troops in harm’s way and could drag our country into another prolonged war in the Middle East. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to compel a vote on a war powers resolution. I am also calling on the Administration to immediately provide a briefing on this ongoing military action, including their justification for abandoning diplomatic talks, as well as their strategy for avoiding an extended regional conflict that is not supported by the American people. I am praying for all the service members in the region and their families.”

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Brown Statement on Trump Strikes on Iran

Cleveland, OH – Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) releases the following statement:

“My message to this dangerous President is clear: The American people do not want another costly and endless war.

“This President promised to end wars, not start new ones. Yet over the last year, we have seen the same pattern: more strikes, in more places, with less explanation and less accountability.

“The President himself called this a war, yet it was launched without Congressional authorization, without an imminent threat, without an explanation to the American people, and without a clear objective. That is why Congress must step in. When the House considers a war powers resolution related to Iran next week, I will support it just as I have supported every similar effort this Congress.

“Let me be clear: The Iranian regime is repressive, destabilizing and a sponsor of terror. Preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon and confronting its human rights abuses and support for terrorism are legitimate and longstanding U.S. goals. But acknowledging those facts does not give any President the right to take this country to war on their own, especially without an imminent threat or having exhausted every diplomatic and economic tool at our disposal.

“The Administration owes the American people and Congress clear answers, and this President must be constrained. At this frightening time, I am praying for the safety of our service members, diplomats, and allies in the region.”

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Stefanik Statement on Operation Epic Fury

SARATOGA, N.Y. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, released the following statement:

"As a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Select Committee on Intelligence, I have always been consistent that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons capabilities that would threaten the national security of the United States. Iran is the world’s largest sponsor of terror and has targeted, killed, and wounded U.S. service members and civilians throughout the Middle East over the past decades including soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division. Additionally, the sick Iran regime controlled by the blood-thirsty ayatollah terrorists have destroyed a nation, continued to pursue nuclear weapons threatening America and all of humanity, slaughtered innocent Iranians, and shed blood across the Middle East including of Americans.

I know President Trump has to make some of the most difficult decisions imaginable and there is no decision more serious that military action to protect our national security and American lives.

God Bless our brave men and women in uniform. The American people are praying for your safety."


Rep. Haley Stevens Statement on U.S. Strikes on Iran

Washington, D.C. — Following the U.S. strikes on Iran, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement:

“President Trump has once again put Americans in harm’s way without consulting Congress—the latest in a series of grave violations of our Constitution by this Administration. I am praying for the safety of our troops and all the innocent people who have spent today taking refuge in bomb shelters across the region.

“For decades, Iran’s state sponsorship of terror across the globe has led to chaos and unchecked violence. We cannot ignore that an armed and nuclear Iran would bring even more violence and chaos to the Middle East and the entire world. We also cannot ignore the imperative to achieve freedom for the people of Iran, who have bravely spoken out through protest in recent weeks.

“At Trump’s direction, Speaker Johnson has blocked multiple opportunities to reassert Congress’ war power authority. Congress and the White House must work together with our allies to achieve peace in the Middle East, stop Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, end Iran’s support for terrorist proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah, and keep Americans safe at home and abroad.

“Michiganders have been clear they do not want more endless wars. Congress must be convened, we must be briefed, and we must follow the Constitution.”

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Strickland Statement on Trump’s Strikes on Iran

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) released the following statement:

“Congress has the constitutional authority to declare war, and Trump’s reckless action in Iran has dangerously escalated tensions and put American lives at risk.

The Islamic Republic regime of Iran is the most prolific state sponsor of terrorism in the world, and must be stopped. The people of Iran have been tortured and murdered under their rule for decades.

The Trump administration, however, must make a clear case to the American people and Congress, including the national security objective, the role of our allies and surrounding nations in the region, and how U.S. troops will not be stuck in a prolonged war in the Middle East.”

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

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Ranking Member Subramanyam Statement on U.S. Military Action in Iran

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Military and Foreign Affairs Oversight Subcommittee, released the following statement after U.S. military action in Iran:

“When we put American servicemembers’ lives at risk, we must ensure that the cause is worthy and the objective is clear. We must ask whether it truly makes our country safer and whether all diplomatic options have been exhausted.

It is not clear to me that a protracted war with Iran fits that criteria. Last year, we were told that Iran’s nuclear capability was obliterated and it would take years to rebuild. Now we’re told it poses an existential threat to our country and requires war to destroy it.

I support our troops and their families, and I support the Iranian people’s efforts to fight their oppressive government for a free, fair, and secular future. But the American people are tired of forever wars, regime change with unintended consequences, and spending trillions on wars abroad.

And once again, President Trump, the ‘Peace President,’ began this military action without any Congressional authorization. The authority to declare war resides with Congress. As these developments unfold, President Trump must seek proper Congressional authorization.


Rep. Summer Lee Statement Condemning Strikes on Iran

PITTSBURGH, PA – FEBRUARY 28, 2026 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued the following statement condemning President Trump’s decision to illegally strike Iran:

“Trump’s words make it clear he doesn’t care about the safety of Americans and his actions make clear he doesn't care about the safety of the Iranian people. If he did, he wouldn’t be risking the lives of American troops for the sake of another endless war or trying to turn Iran into a war zone.

“From day one Trump has shown us his corruption and desire for regime change in multiple countries that he has no business being in.

“This is an insanely unpopular, dangerous, and illegal act of war. Congress must pass a War Powers Resolution immediately and hold this lawless president accountable.”


Statement from Rep. Sykes on the Trump Administration’s Military Action in Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) issued the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s actions in Iran:

“Once again, President Trump has launched illegal military strikes on a foreign country without congressional authorization. These attacks escalate tensions in the Middle East, put American service members at risk, and endanger civilians in Iran,” said Rep. Sykes.

“The Iranian government is brutal and oppressive, and the Iranian people deserve safety and freedom. But military action without clear objectives or a legal mandate is reckless and unconstitutional.

“At a time when American families are facing economic challenges at home, we should not be asked to bear the costs of another open-ended conflict. Congress must be briefed immediately and assert its constitutional responsibility before this escalates further.


Tlaib: No War with Iran

DETROIT — Today, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) issued the following statement:

“The American people do not want a war with Iran. Trump is acting on the violent fantasies of the American political elite and the Israeli apartheid government, ignoring the vast majority of Americans who say loud and clear: No More Wars. The Trump Administration and Israeli regime’s illegal war of aggression on Iran has already killed dozens of children, and more horrific death and destruction will come. These acts of war threaten to ignite a catastrophic regional war that will make no one safer while unleashing unconscionable suffering.

“President Trump will pretend this is about democracy and the rights of the Iranian people. Don’t be fooled, Trump does not care about the Iranian people. The Iranian people are not pawns for the interests of foreign powers. Our government has imposed brutal sanctions that have destroyed the Iranian economy and the lives and livelihoods of millions of people. You cannot ‘free’ people by killing them and destroying their country.

“Congress must stop the bloodshed by immediately reconvening to exert its war powers and stop this deranged president. But let’s be clear: warmongering politicians from both parties support this illegal war, and it will take a mass anti-war movement to stop it.”

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Rep. Tokuda Statement on Unauthorized U.S. Military Strikes on Iran

Hawaiʻi — "This morning, Americans woke to the news that our nation launched large-scale military strikes on Iran. In starting this conflict, President Trump neither sought authorization from Congress nor presented the American people with evidence of an imminent threat that would justify bypassing it. The Constitution is clear: the power to take this nation to war does not rest with one person alone.

Instead, we are left with the President’s own acknowledgement that our service members may die in this conflict as he calls for regime change in Iran. There is no question that the brutal Iranian regime has sponsored terrorism against our country and brutally repressed its own people. But every American, especially those with loved ones serving in our military, must ask whether this President has sufficiently justified sending our troops into battle and whether he has laid out a strategy and plan that will guide this conflict toward a defined and achievable end.

President Trump has failed on both fronts. He has not demonstrated an imminent threat to justify this conflict, nor has he laid out how and when this conflict will end.

The human toll abroad and the economic pain at home should never be the price Americans pay for one man’s war. We deserve better than this."

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Tonko Statement on Trump Strikes on Iran

AMSTERDAM, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) released a statement following an announcement from President Trump that the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran:

"Trump is dragging our nation into another reckless, unjustified war in the Middle East. Americans don’t want another regime change war that costs trillions and sacrifices the lives of our nation’s troops.


Statement from Congresswoman Torres on Strikes on Iran

I am closely monitoring the Administration’s recent military actions involving Iran and remain concerned about the potential for further escalation in an already fragile region. Decisions that place American servicemembers in harm’s way require clarity of purpose, defined objectives, and a strategy that prioritizes long term stability and security.

The Constitution entrusts Congress with the authority to declare war, ensuring that matters of armed conflict are subject to careful deliberation and democratic accountability.

When the House considers a War Powers resolution to reaffirm Congress’s role, and I intend to support that effort. It is essential that we proceed thoughtfully, uphold our constitutional framework, and avoid actions that could lead to unintended consequences.

My thoughts are with our servicemembers, and civilians throughout the region whose safety must remain our highest priority.