House Speaker Mike Johnson said he is opposed to debate and a vote on a use-of-force resolution.
“I don’t think this is an appropriate time for a War Powers resolution. And I don’t think it’s necessary,” Johnson told reporters Monday.
READ MORE: Iran retaliates for U.S. air strikes, launches missile attack on American military base in Qatar
He said Democratic presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama exercised their authority as commander-in-chief in ordering operations in the Middle East. He said Democratic lawmakers didn’t object then.
“Suddenly, now, they are just up in arms,” Johnson said. “It’s all politics. This is not a time for politics.”
Johnson said Trump has used his constitutional authority “judiciously.”
WATCH LIVE: Senate convenes for first time since U.S. launches air strikes against Iran
Johnson said he had a classified briefing Monday morning about Iran. He spoke to reporters soon after Iran had launched a missile attack on a U.S. military bases in Qatar and Iraq.
“This is the retaliation that was expected,” Johnson said. “So far, so good. No casualties so far as we know.”
Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said there would be a classified briefing for House members Tuesday afternoon.
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