Nevada’s two Democratic U.S. senators supported an unsuccessful Senate effort Wednesday to require congressional approval before additional U.S. military action against Iran.
Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen voted in favor of a war powers resolution that would have required Congress to debate and vote on continued military involvement. The measure, introduced by Sen. Tim Kaine, failed on a 47–53 vote.
The resolution came following recent U.S.-Israeli strikes that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior Iranian leaders. Supporters argued Congress should play a direct role in deciding whether the United States continues military operations.
Cortez Masto criticized the administration’s approach in a statement following the vote. While calling Khamenei a “brutal dictator,” Cortez Masto added that his death could present “an opportunity for the people of Iran to create a better future for themselves.”
Rosen said she supports preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons but emphasized that Congress must be involved in decisions about military action. Democrats U.S. Reps. Steven Horsford, Dina Titus, and Susie Lee have previously called for congressional briefings, consultation, and a vote on any war powers authorization tied to the conflict.
Republican senators largely opposed the measure, arguing it could hinder efforts to counter Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.
The issue also carries significance for Nevada, which has a substantial military presence and many residents serving in the armed forces.
The U.S. House will hold a similar debate. Nevada’s lone Republican representative, Rep. Mark Amodei, has previously voiced support for strong action against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
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