Rep. Thomas Massie — a leading GOP critic of the president — introduced a war powers vote to reassert congressional war declaration authority following the U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear facilities last June, but backed off of the effort when it became apparent the attack was limited in scope.
Now, with the U.S. fully engaged in an ongoing bombing campaign in Iran, Massie returned to the floor to argue the necessity of congressional approval and a clear set of goals in the conflict.
"Iran has not attacked the United States, Congress has not declared war, and Congress has not granted specific statutory authorization," Massie said. "Beyond the constitutional question, here lies an even more important one: Why are we going to war with Iran? We owe our military servicemembers clear mission."
In stark contrast, Congressman Andy Barr rose to defend the president's actions and questioned the need for an explicit endorsement by Congress.
"As a legal matter, the president of the United States doesn't need the permission of Congress to engage in hostilities to protect the American people," the Sixth District congressman argued.
The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the sole power to declare war, but presidents have increasingly engaged in military campaigns without that authorization.
A NBC News poll found that 90% of self-identified MAGA-aligned Republicans support the attacks, but the Republicans who do not place themselves in the MAGA camp were less likely to back the military action. 54% expressed a favorable view of the president's actions in Iran, while 36% opposed.