The Senate on Thursday blocked a Democratic resolution to end the U.S. war with Iran in a 49-50 vote. The measure, which had previously passed the House with bipartisan support, aimed to limit President Donald Trump's war powers. The vote occurred as the conflict passed the 200-day mark, with 19 American service members killed.
Senate Democrats, led by minority leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey, forced the vote under the War Powers Resolution. While the resolution ultimately failed, it saw some Republicans defect and vote with Democrats. This shift comes as some GOP lawmakers distance themselves from President Trump amid the economic fallout and widespread unpopularity of the ongoing conflict.
The high-profile vote took place weeks before the midterm elections, providing Republican lawmakers an opportunity to signal disagreement with the president while campaigning to retain their congressional majorities. The administration has previously ignored a similar resolution passed in June, arguing that such measures lack the force of law.