HYDE-SMITH STATEMENT ON VOTE AGAINST WAR POWERS RESOLUTION TARGETING OPERATION EPIC FURY

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued the following statement following her vote against a resolution to short-circuit President Trump’s ability to continue Operation Epic Fury against the Islamic Republic of Iran:

“I voted against the resolution because President Trump, like presidents before him, has the authority under the War Powers Act to take military action to address threats to our nation.  In this case, President Trump is taking decisive steps to eliminate the Islamic Republic of Iran’s decades-long campaign of deadly attacks against Americans and our national interests.

“I didn’t support this resolution because it would limit the President’s ability to act to eliminate threats and protect Americans, damage our nation’s standing with our allies, embolden our enemies, and endanger our brave fighting men and women.  Frankly, I think this resolution is primarily rooted in a deep, personal dislike for President Trump among some of my colleagues.”

Under the War Powers Act of 1973, the President is authorized to conduct military operations like Operation Epic Fury for a minimum of 60 days, with the option to extend them.  Presidents of both parties have relied on this authority to deploy U.S. forces in response to national security threats. 

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