WASHINGTON, D.C. – Illinois political leaders from both parties are responding after President Donald Trump ordered military strikes against Iran, a move that has sparked debate in Washington over executive authority and the risk of broader conflict in the Middle East.
Governor JB Pritzker criticized the President’s decision, saying there was “no justification, no authorization from Congress, and no clear objective.”
“He is once again sidestepping the Constitution and once again failing to explain why he’s taking us into another war,” Pritzker said in a statement. He added that Americans asked for affordable housing and health care “not another potentially endless conflict,” and concluded by saying, “God protect our troops.”
U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth called the strikes illegal, arguing the President did not obtain constitutionally required authorization from Congress before launching the operation. Duckworth, a combat veteran and member of the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, urged the Senate to vote on a War Powers Resolution to block what she described as an unauthorized military campaign.
U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, the Senate Democratic Whip, said while there is bipartisan agreement on preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, “there is no consensus for another interminable war in the Middle East.” Durbin, who voted against the Iraq War in 2002, warned that regime change in Iran could result in “another long-term military commitment with deadly consequences for thousands of American troops,” and expressed concern about what he called “rash and unpredictable conduct” from the President.
Congressman Eric Sorensen said he is “deeply worried” the strikes could put U.S. servicemembers at risk and destabilize the region, stating the action was taken without an articulated plan to protect national security and allies.
However, Congressman Darin LaHood defended the President’s decision, saying Iran repeatedly rejected diplomatic efforts and continued to fund terrorist organizations and threaten U.S. interests.
“LaHood said last night’s operation, referred to as ‘Operation Epic Fury,’ was a direct consequence of Iran’s refusal to pursue a peaceful path forward. He added that President Trump made efforts to provide a diplomatic off-ramp, but said the safety and security of the American people must remain the top priority. LaHood also said he is praying for the safety of servicemembers and Americans in the region.”
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, a senior member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, said the President is “risking the lives of Americans in an unauthorized war with no end in sight.” Krishnamoorthi said he will vote in support of a War Powers Resolution, arguing the authority to declare war rests with Congress.
The White House has said the strikes were necessary for national security.
Fox News and Reuters have confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had been killed in the operation.
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