Trump’s Iran war messaging is not winning over Americans
Trump, still negotiating to conclude the war, claims it’s already over. Some Republican lawmakers have had enough
TL;DR
- The US House of Representatives voted 215-208 to direct the president to withdraw US forces from hostilities with Iran.
- Donald Trump called the vote "unpatriotic" and blamed "Trump Derangement Syndrome."
- Four Republicans crossed the aisle to vote for the measure, citing various reasons including opposition to the war, legality, and economic impact.
- The administration insists Operation Epic Fury has concluded and only defensive strikes are being conducted.
- Despite claims of the war being over, gas prices are high, and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.
- Trump's own Truth Social post mentioned "final negotiations to end the War with the Islamic Republic of Iran."
- A May Economist/YouGov survey found 59% disapproved of Trump’s handling of Iran.
- The Senate has reached a 50-vote majority on a similar war powers measure.
- Rising gas prices have hurt household finances, costing US households roughly $100bn in aggregate.
- The White House correctly notes the House vote is largely symbolic, but symbols can accumulate.