Congress Split on Iran Attack; Some Call for War Vote

Lawmakers express concern over Trump ordering strikes without Congressional approval.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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Congressional reaction to the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran was largely split along party lines, with Democratic and some Republican lawmakers expressing concern that President Trump ordered the strikes without first seeking Congressional approval. Lawmakers said they would renew efforts to pass a war powers resolution, with some calling for a Congressional vote on war with Iran.

Why it matters

The attack on Iran raises questions about the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches when it comes to matters of war. Some lawmakers argue that the Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the power to declare war on another country.

The details

Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and Ro Khanna, D-Calif., said they would work together to force a Congressional vote on war with Iran. The White House notified the Gang of Eight Congressional leaders shortly before the attack. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson expressed support for Trump's actions, while Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer called on the administration to provide more details to Congress and the public.

  • The attack on Iran occurred overnight on February 28, 2026.

The players

Thomas Massie

A Republican Congressman from Kentucky who opposes the war with Iran.

Ro Khanna

A Democratic Congressman from California who is working with Massie to force a Congressional vote on war with Iran.

Mike Johnson

The Speaker of the House who expressed support for Trump's actions against Iran.

Chuck Schumer

The Senate Democratic leader who called on the Trump administration to provide more details to Congress and the public about the attack on Iran.

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What they’re saying

“When Congress reconvenes, I will work with [Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif.] to force a congressional vote on war with Iran.”

— Thomas Massie, Congressman (X)

“Today, Iran is facing the severe consequences of its evil actions. President Trump and the administration have made every effort to pursue peaceful and diplomatic solutions in response to the Iranian regime's sustained nuclear ambitions and development, terrorism and the murder of Americans — and even their own people.”

— Mike Johnson, Speaker of the House (X)

“The administration has not provided Congress and the American people with critical details about the scope and immediacy of the threat. Confronting Iran's malign regional activities, nuclear ambitions and harsh oppression of the Iranian people demands American strength, resolve, regional coordination and strategic clarity.”

— Chuck Schumer, Senate Democratic Leader (X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.