Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett is demanding answers after President Trump launched military strikes against Iran without seeking authorization from Congress — calling the move a clear violation of constitutional limits.
In a tense interview on MS NOW, Crockett did not mince words. “Only Congress has the power to declare war,” she said, emphasizing that this is not optional language but a foundational principle written into the Constitution.
Her frustration centers less on partisan politics and more on what she views as an erosion of checks and balances. “We swore an oath to the Constitution,” she said, questioning whether her Republican colleagues will stand by that oath or remain loyal to the president.
A Constitutional Showdown
Crockett argued that regardless of how lawmakers feel about Iran’s government, the process matters. Congress was not consulted before the strikes, and no new Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) has been debated.
While a 2001 AUMF has been used for decades to justify military actions against certain terrorist groups, Crockett noted it does not explicitly apply to Iran’s regime. If the administration believes military action is necessary, she said, it should make its case before Congress — not bypass it.
“If you have the legal authority,” she asked, “why not come to Congress?”
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett / Mandatory Credit: Jack Gruber-USA TODAY via Imagn Images
Bipartisan War Powers Push
The congresswoman pointed to a bipartisan effort already underway. Representatives Thomas Massie, a Republican, and Ro Khanna, a Democrat, have been working together on a War Powers resolution that would reassert Congress’s authority over military engagement.
Khanna has indicated he wants the measure brought to the House floor quickly. Crockett says that’s not soon enough.
“I don’t think we should wait,” she said, urging House Speaker Mike Johnson to call lawmakers back immediately. With lives potentially on the line, she argued, Congress should not act as a spectator.
Her most pointed question: “How many people are going to have to die” before lawmakers step in?
Concerns Over Escalation
Crockett suggested the strikes follow a troubling pattern of executive action taken when Congress is out of session, limiting immediate oversight. She also warned that military escalation could place American service members at risk without proper debate.
At stake, she argued, is more than a single military decision. It’s whether the legislative branch will defend its constitutional role in decisions of war and peace.
“This isn’t about party,” Crockett said. “It’s about power, accountability, and whether we still believe in checks and balances.”
As tensions rise abroad and political tensions mount at home, the debate now shifts to Capitol Hill — where lawmakers must decide whether to challenge the president’s authority or allow the strikes to stand without formal approval.
