In the News

Kuster, Pappas vote for war powers resolution

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire's two House members, both of them Democrats, voted with the majority to approve a resolution asserting that President Donald Trump must seek approval from Congress before engaging in further military action against Iran.

The war powers resolution passed, 224-194.

“The Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war," Rep. Annie Kuster said a statement after Thursday's vote. “This is a decision that should be made by the people — not one person. We are stronger when we work together — I urge President Trump to work with Congress to advance a de-escalatory strategy to prevent further violence and protect Americans at home and abroad."

Rep. Chris Pappas said Congress didn't authorize Trump to use military force against Iran and it wasn't consulted. “Because of this and a need for a thoughtful and firm policy toward Iran moving forward, I supported this resolution," he said in a statement.

The resolution is not binding on the president and would not require his signature. But House Speaker Nancy Pelosi nonetheless insisted it "has real teeth" because "it is a statement of the Congress of the United States."

The White House called the resolution “ridiculous" and “completely misguided."