House Republicans thwarted the latest attempt by Democrats to limit President Donald Trump’s military authority on Thursday. This action comes during a two-week ceasefire with Iran.
Democratic leaders, including Rep. Glenn Ivey of Maryland, sought to push a war powers resolution through a unanimous consent procedure. However, Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., adjourned the session before allowing Ivey to speak.
The proposed measure aimed to terminate the conflict with Iran, requiring congressional approval for any future military actions from Trump.
Following the abrupt adjournment, Ivey criticized the move, emphasizing that “Congress needs to consider this. The time has come. The time has come.”
This disagreement arises as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries advocates for an immediate reconvening of Congress to discuss restrictions on Trump’s powers. The House is currently on a two-week recess, slated to return the week of April 13.
🚨 BREAKING: House Democrats just started YELLING on the floor after the GOP presiding officer BLOCKED their War Powers resolution to stop President Trump’s Operation Epic Fury
He slammed the gavel, and Democrats raged: “SHAME!”
Hey Democrats — we’re already in ceasefire mode… pic.twitter.com/j2WS69Os9B
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) April 9, 2026
In a letter to colleagues, Jeffries expressed the urgency of the situation after Trump announced a temporary ceasefire with Iran. He described the ceasefire as “woefully insufficient” and urged Congress to reconvene to vote on a resolution aimed at permanently halting military actions in the Middle East.
Efforts by Democrats to curb Trump’s authority have consistently faced strong opposition from Republicans since the conflict escalated in late February. Even if they manage to pass a war powers resolution, Trump retains the power to veto it.
Despite setbacks, Democrats are expected to continue their efforts, with the possibility of calling another vote next week.
Some Republicans who previously opposed limiting Trump’s military powers may now be open to reconsider, including Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C. Notably, Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, have already shown willingness to cross party lines in supporting such measures.
RELATED: Snap Survey Finds Overwhelming Support For Trump-Negotiated Ceasefire
In the Senate, Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced plans to pursue another vote on a war powers resolution in the coming week, characterizing Operation Epic Fury as one of the worst military initiatives taken by the U.S.
RELATED: Trump’s Iran Ceasefire Rocked Within Hours As Regional Attacks Erupt
Administration officials report that diplomatic efforts continue, with Vice President JD Vance and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expected to engage in talks facilitated by Pakistani mediators. It remains uncertain whether Iranian representatives will join these discussions, especially given Tehran’s conditions pertaining to a ceasefire involving Israel and Lebanon.
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