United States Senator Bill Hagerty, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, spoke on the Senate floor advocating for President Donald Trump’s leadership. He urged his colleagues to oppose the War Powers Resolution concerning Iran.
Hagerty stated, “President Trump’s actions to address Iran’s nuclear weapons program last weekend did not start a war—they ended one.” He emphasized his support for Trump’s decisions in countering Iran’s nuclear threat and opposed what he described as an ill-conceived joint resolution.
Hagerty expressed understanding of Congress’s role in war and peace but rejected any resolution that limits the President’s ability to defend national interests. He warned that passing the resolution would send a dangerous message to adversaries about America’s resolve.
He insisted, “President Trump acted entirely within his constitutional authority under Article II and in accordance with his solemn duty to defend this nation and the American people.” Hagerty praised Operation Midnight Hammer as a strategic action against threats from Iran, noting no American lives were lost due to President Trump’s leadership and advice from key officials like Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Hagerty criticized the Iranian regime for decades of aggression through various means including missile programs and cyber attacks. He argued against constraints on presidential action during crises, stating it is reckless to wait for congressional approval when immediate threats are present.
The senator highlighted that such resolutions elevate process over policy and could jeopardize military operations by losing the element of surprise. While acknowledging Congress’s consultative role, he warned against showing division which might embolden adversaries like Tehran.
Hagerty concluded by reiterating that President Trump acted wisely to protect American lives and restore strategic deterrence after years of Iranian aggression left unanswered by previous administrations. He called on colleagues to reject Senate Joint Resolution 59, stating, “We should not be here debating how to constrain this type of leadership, but rather discussing how to recognize and support it.”
