Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) criticized on May 13 a Democrat-led War Powers Resolution, urging his colleagues to reject what he called a partisan effort to undermine the President of the United States.
The issue centers on the use of War Powers votes in Congress and their frequency in recent years. Barrasso said these resolutions are not about protecting the Constitution but about obstructing presidential authority. He said, “I come to the Floor having just heard the Senator from Oregon proposing a War Powers Act today. I heard him say this is about protecting the Constitution. What they’re doing, what the Democrats are doing, is not about protecting the Constitution. It is about obstructing the President of the United States. That’s what’s happening here today. That’s exactly what Democrats are trying to do.”
Barrasso noted that since 1973 there have been seventeen War Powers votes in Congress and that fourteen of those were initiated by Democrats targeting President Trump. He contrasted this with previous administrations: “Democrats introduced absolutely zero War Powers Resolutions under President Obama. That’s despite his strikes in Libya. Democrats introduced absolutely zero War Powers Resolutions under President Biden, despite his actions in Syria.”
Addressing foreign policy issues, Barrasso highlighted Iran’s history as “the world’s largest and leading sponsor of terrorism” and credited former President Trump for taking strong action against Iran: “For decades, American Presidents have pledged that Iran would not get a nuclear weapon. Only President Trump had the courage and the strength to keep his word.” He also referenced ongoing economic pressures on Iran and recent diplomatic developments.
Barrasso argued that enforcing a blockade does not constitute active hostilities under current law and pointed out comments by Senator Tim Kaine regarding efforts to “flood” Senate proceedings with such resolutions.
According to the official website, Barrasso resides with his three children in Casper; chairs key Senate subcommittees; supports energy affordability policies; operates multiple offices across Wyoming; has been recognized as Wyoming Physician of the Year; and focuses on priorities including economy, energy, public lands, national parks, trade and opportunities for Wyoming ranchers.
Barrasso concluded by calling for unity: “America must continue to show strength and resolve.”
