Republicans Face Crucial Test on Iran War as 60-Day Deadline Looms

Republicans in Congress face a crucial test as President Donald Trump's military operations in Iran approach a 60-day statutory deadline under the War Powers Act of 1973. The U.S. military campaign, which began on February 28, will reach this mark on April 29, but President Trump has until May 1 to seek congressional approval. This deadline requires President Trump to terminate military operations unless Congress votes to declare war or authorizes the use of force. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson have refused to support efforts to stop these operations, though many Republicans, including Rep. Don Bacon and Sen. Thom Tillis, insist on congressional authorization. The White House has not responded to requests for comment on whether President Trump plans to seek authorization, and an expected supplemental funding request of $80 to $100 billion will force lawmakers to decide whether to finance an unauthorized conflict.