Congressman Cohen Votes to Prevent the President from Unilaterally Going to War with Iran

Statement

Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today voted to prohibit federal funds from being used for military actions in or against Iran unless Congress has declared war. Congressman Cohen also voted to repeal the outdated and unnecessary 2002 Iraq Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF). Under the Constitution, Congress has the sole duty to declare war and these votes reassert Congress' authority over this solemn duty.

After the vote, Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

"Earlier this month, the Trump Administration conducted a provocative airstrike targeting an Iranian general in Baghdad, using the 2002 AUMF as his ostensible rationale, and without consulting Congress. The action endangered our military servicemembers, diplomats and others by risking a dangerous escalation. Iran subsequently retaliated by attacking the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq, which housed American servicemembers. This attack sent 50 to hospitals with traumatic brain injuries.

"The 2002 AUMF is an outdated piece of legislation that was written to address the perceived threat of the Saddam Hussein regime. It is past time to repeal this legislation. These votes today will save lives and, I hope, contribute to a de-escalation strategy that prevents further violence."

Source