President Donald Trump criticized Senate Republicans during a visit to the Capitol Wednesday for permitting a vote on a war powers resolution related to Iran. The resolution, which allows Congress to oppose military actions, passed the Senate earlier this month, marking the first time the chamber adopted such a measure on Iran.
Trump, invited to speak at a GOP luncheon by Sen. Rick Scott of Florida, initially planned to push for a voting bill requiring proof of citizenship. However, the discussion centered on Tuesday’s war powers vote, which drew fire from Trump, especially toward four Republican senators who voted with Democrats: Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine, Rand Paul of Kentucky and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana.
Following the vote, Trump called out Cassidy on social media, labeling him a “loser” and criticizing his vote. Cassidy defended his stance, telling reporters after the meeting that he was seeking transparency about U.S. military objectives. According to a person familiar with the private discussion, Trump repeatedly told Cassidy to sit down and called him a “lunatic” at one point. Cassidy said he voted to maintain war powers until he received a briefing and tried to de-escalate the situation.
Despite publicly claiming the meeting was “really great,” Trump hinted at discord among attendees, adding, “We like everyone in the room. I don’t like a few people, but that’s okay.” The confrontation underscored ongoing tensions between Trump and GOP lawmakers over foreign policy and legislative priorities.
Earlier, Trump canceled a signing ceremony for a bipartisan housing bill, which had received broad support from Republicans. He reversed course on the legislation, citing the need for the passage of his proof-of-citizenship voting bill, the SAVE America Act. This move frustrated Senate Republicans eager to demonstrate unity ahead of the midterm elections, with some questioning Trump’s motives and strategy.
Trump’s opposition to the housing bill adds to a series of recent conflicts with Senate Republicans. He has blocked confirmations, resisted funding requests, and pushed controversial legislation, revealing a rift over policy and election strategies. GOP leaders like Senate Majority Leader John Thune have expressed hope that Trump will eventually sign the bill, which aims to lower costs for consumers.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
