Pou Votes to Restore Congress’s War Authority

WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09) today voted for H.Con.Res.38, a resolution that would demand the U.S. terminate hostilities against Iran without a formal declaration of war, pursuant to the War Powers Resolution enacted in 1973.

"For generations, Congress has abdicated its constitutional responsibility to declare war, and in so doing, has directly contributed to the rise of an unconstrained executive and a weakened Article I branch. Our action today seeks to restore critical balance to the balance of powers," said Congresswoman Pou.

"President Trump said 'he had a feeling'-and now America is at war. The Defense Secretary says our commitment to our objectives grows as our advantages grow. The Secretary of State says this isn't even a war. And President Trump says he'll choose the next leader of Iran. What does that even mean? Let me be clear: we cannot send our brave men and women into war based on a feeling, without a clear plan, real justification, or any imminent threat to our nation. America is still living with the consequences of Iraq and Afghanistan. We cannot make that mistake again.

"For nearly 50 years, the Iranian regime has been one of the foremost incubators of terrorism in the world. The regime has murdered countless innocent people across the globe, including Americans. Weeks ago, it butchered tens of thousands of Iranians peacefully demanding a better future. The Iranian regime's quest for nuclear bombs constitutes one of the gravest threats to the world. The ultimate demise of this regime, when it arrives, will be a great day for millions of Iranians, for the United States, and for the cause of freedom across the world.

"I am hoping and praying for our brave military personnel, the people of Iran, and all innocent people impacted by this violent conflict. But this conflict can only continue with the constitutional consent of Congress."

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