GOP divided, Democrats retreat
While most Republicans have avoided challenging Trump, some have expressed unease. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he was unlikely to vote on authorizing the force at this time, while others indicated Congress should eventually consider it.Senator Susan Collins said the deadline was “not a suggestion, it’s a requirement” and called for a clear strategy to end the conflict. Indiana Senator Todd Young said lawmakers should “make sure people … support it” if hostilities resume.Democrats strongly rejected the administration’s explanation. Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “There is no pause button in the Constitution… A blockade alone is a continuing act of war.”The debate refers to broader concerns over the president’s war powers, after Trump’s campaign in Iran began two months ago without congressional approval. Critics argue that the continued naval blockade and Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz indicate active hostilities.Adam Smith, a Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, underlined rising partisan tensions, saying he did not expect the administration to follow the law.