Bucks Co. Congressman Votes With Democrats To Pass War Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON, DC — Bucks County Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA1) joined the Democrats on Wednesday in passing a War Powers Resolution that would require President Donald Trump to end military hostilities with Iran.

Fitzpatrick was one of four Republicans who crossed the aisle and voted with the Democrats to pass the resolution, 215 to 208. The concurrent resolution now goes to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

Fitzpatrick said his vote was about following the law.

“When it comes to the conflict in Iran, these two statements of fact remain: 1) The world is a safer place after Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been degraded, and; 2) We are a nation of the rule of law and three independent, co-equal branches of government. We must keep the world safe, and we must also follow the law,” said Fitzpatrick in a statement.

Fitzpatrick said the War Powers Act of 1973 states that any conflict exceeding 60 days must be brought to Congress. “Today was the second War Powers Resolution that was brought to the House Floor following the expiration of this 60-day clock,” he said.

“The law, as it is currently written, requires that the matter now be brought to Congress. That is why I voted in favor of today’s resolution. We must follow the law,” said Fitzpatrick

“I previously authored and introduced my own War Powers Resolution that would comply with the War Powers Act of 1973, and that would also encourage, not discourage, cease-fires by tolling the 60-day clock to allow for negotiations.

“Until my resolution is passed by Congress, or until the United States Supreme Court rules on the constitutionality of the War Powers Act of 1973, we must abide by the law as it is currently written," he said.

Brian Fitzpatrick, a Republican, represents Pennsylvania's 1st Congressional District which includes Bucks County and parts of Montgomery County.