House Democrats Fail to Block Trump's Iran Threats

GOP blocks resolution to prevent escalation of conflict after former president's 'civilization' warning

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:07pm

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A solitary figure stands alone in a dimly lit government building hallway, the warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows creating a pensive, cinematic atmosphere.The political tensions and concerns over potential military conflict with Iran cast a somber, uncertain mood over the nation's capital.NYC Today

House Democrats attempted to pass a resolution on Thursday aimed at preventing escalation of conflict with Iran, in response to former President Trump's threat to 'annihilate 'a whole civilization'' if Iran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, the effort was blocked by Republicans during a pro forma session, with Representative Chris Smith of New Jersey adjourning the session without allowing a vote.

Why it matters

The situation has raised concerns about the potential for renewed military conflict with Iran and the extent of presidential war powers. Democrats have called for invoking the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from power, while Senate Democrats plan to force a vote on a war powers resolution when Congress returns next week.

The details

The resolution was introduced by Representative Glenn Ivey, D-Md., and other Democrats who returned to Washington during the spring recess to pursue it through unanimous consent. However, the Republican presiding over the session, Representative Chris Smith of New Jersey, adjourned the session without allowing a vote, prompting protests from Democrats.

  • On Thursday, House Democrats attempted to pass the resolution during a routine 'pro forma' session.
  • Congress is currently on spring recess, but some Democrats returned to Washington to pursue the resolution.

The players

Glenn Ivey

A Democratic representative from Maryland who introduced the resolution.

Chris Smith

The Republican representative from New Jersey who presided over the pro forma session and adjourned it without allowing a vote.

Hakeem Jeffries

The House Minority Leader, D-N.Y., who announced a briefing on the 25th Amendment and Trump administration accountability.

Jamie Raskin

The Democratic representative from Maryland who will lead the briefing on the 25th Amendment.

Rand Paul

The Republican senator from Kentucky who has previously supported similar war powers resolutions.

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What’s next

Senate Democrats plan to force a vote on their own war powers resolution when Congress returns next week. If passed, it would halt any ongoing military operations in Iran and require congressional approval for future actions.

The takeaway

The failed attempt to pass the resolution highlights the ongoing political tensions and concerns over the potential for renewed conflict with Iran. The situation has prompted calls for action, including the possible invocation of the 25th Amendment, as well as a renewed push for congressional oversight of military operations.