A Republican lawmaker in the House is joining forces with Democrats to initiate a lawsuit against President Donald Trump regarding the U.S. involvement in Iran. Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky supports a new resolution requiring House Speaker Mike Johnson to sue the Trump administration. The allegation is that President Trump is violating federal law in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
This resolution is co-led by Representative Gregory Meeks from New York, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Other co-sponsors include Representatives Jim McGovern of Massachusetts, Gabe Amo of Rhode Island, Pramila Jayapal of Washington, Jason Crow of Colorado, and Ro Khanna of California. Massie accused both Trump and Pentagon leader Pete Hegseth of blatantly violating parts of the War Powers Resolution of 1973.
Alleged Violations by the Administration
Massie pointed out that for the first time, a concurrent resolution adhering to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution was passed, but it was disregarded by the White House. He highlighted that the administration believes the law to be unconstitutional, although the courts have never ruled this way. Massie urges the judicial system to address the issue.
Massie added that the administration also contravenes section 5(b) of the law. They claim the 60-day limit on military actions does not apply in Iran due to temporary ceasefires resetting the clock. Massie believes courts would not support this view, warranting legal examination.
Political Consequences for Massie
Massie is among the four Republicans who sided with Democrats against Trump, passing a largely symbolic war powers resolution condemning the Iran war. His opposition led to a primary challenge from a candidate backed by Trump, resulting in Massie’s expected departure from the House.
However, the resolution to sue Trump might not advance without strategic moves from Massie or Democrats to bypass objections by House GOP leaders.
Comments from House Leadership and the White House
In communications with Fox News Digital, Massie criticized House leadership for not taking more action to halt the conflict. He argued that Speaker Johnson’s inaction diminished Congress’s constitutional authority. Massie criticized the Trump administration for bypassing Congressional permission necessary under the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF).
While Speaker Johnson stated an AUMF is unnecessary, he emphasized the administration’s continued efforts to resolve the conflict. Discussions remain active on how to achieve this.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly responded by highlighting Trump’s distinct approach to the threat posed by a nuclear Iran. She stated that the administration has been openly communicating with Congress, having provided over 30 bipartisan briefings since late February.
Reporter Elizabeth Elkind from Fox News Digital provides on-going coverage of the House of Representatives.
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