The Senate has declined to rebuke the Trump administration for its military conflict with Iran after a late-night vote on Wednesday.
The vote concluded with a 50-47-1 result, reflecting a shift in some Republican swing votes from the earlier 50-48. These senators believe that a second rebuke could potentially disrupt ongoing peace negotiations with Iran.
Sen. Rand Paul, who has previously sided with Democrats on similar resolutions, announced his decision to vote 'present' instead of 'no' shortly before the vote. Paul's decision was intended to avoid any potential harm to the negotiations.
In a statement on X, Paul explained: "Tonight I will vote present on the War Powers resolution. My opinion on the debate over war and executive power has not changed and I have voted that way several times. But since hostilities seem to be over and the President asked me to give consideration to his…"
Following an argument with President Donald Trump, Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) attended a White House briefing on the status of the conflict with Vice President J.D. Vance and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Cassidy later described the briefing as "thorough" and ultimately voted against the resolution, according to The Hill.
Trump praised the Senate's decision in a Truth Social post, thanking Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), and Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) among others.
"This vote puts Iran on notice!" wrote Trump.















