Congressman Bishop Defends the Constitution with War Powers Vote

WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) voted to support H.Con.Res. 38 to uphold Article I war powers granted to Congress by the U.S. Constitution. This was in response to President Trump's ongoing U.S. military strikes against Iran. The resolution failed by a vote of 212-219. After the vote, Congressman Bishop issued the following statement:

"War is one of the most solemn responsibilities of Congress, and the U.S. Constitution says that only Congress can declare war. Iran - like Russia, China, and North Korea - is one of the most dangerous and destructive adversaries of peace and freedom in the world. However, without proof of imminent threat to the United States, and with explanations that shift daily, President Trump has dragged our country into a war 'of choice' with no comprehensive strategy and no objective end game.

"Americans overwhelmingly oppose the war with Iran which could become yet another forever war, paid for with taxpayer dollars and brave American lives. Six U.S. servicemembers are dead and over a dozen seriously injured with more casualties expected to come. We are eternally grateful for their service and sacrifice and will continue to pray for them and their families.

"But this war has already increased the cost of oil and gas at the pump, taking big bites out of family budgets. Instead of putting hardworking Americans first and focusing on lowering the high cost of groceries, healthcare, housing, and utilities, the President has yet again broken campaign promises by going to war, raising costs, and violating the U.S. Constitution.

"Upon taking office, I swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. And my vote today upholds that oath."

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