Olszewski Cosponsors Iran War Powers Resolution

(Washington, DC) –  Maryland Congressman Johnny Olszewski today signed on as a cosponsor of legislation directing President Trump to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran, absent Congressional approval. The resolution, introduced by Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Adam Smith, Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, and Jim Himes, Ranking Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, preserves the ability for U.S. Armed Forces to defend the U.S. and its partners and allies from imminent attack.

Congressman Olszewski issued the following statement:

“The Constitution is clear: only Congress has the power to declare war. I am co-sponsoring the Iran War Powers Resolution to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to this constitutional principle – both now and into the future.

Iran remains a dangerous actor. It must never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons. However, the Trump Administration still has yet to make a clear and compelling case to Congress or the American people to justify unilateral strikes on Iran; nor has it offered any update on Iran’s nuclear program. The Administration has inexplicably postponed a planned Congressional briefing – not once, but twice – on the attack.

This is the latest in the Trump Administration’s concerning pattern of defying our democratic checks and balances. 

That is not how our democracy works. I am joining this resolution to reaffirm that any President must work with Congress before we commit to sending troops into harm’s way. 

Our servicemembers, their families, and all Americans deserve nothing less.”