WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) delivered a floor speech in support of the bipartisan War Powers Resolution.
“The Islamic Republic is a barbaric, corrupt regime that has murdered, imprisoned, and terrorized its own people for decades. As the daughter of Iranian immigrants who fled this regime, I know personally what its violence means,” said Rep. Ansari. “At the same time, as an American Congresswoman who swore an oath to the United States Constitution, I am deeply concerned by President Trump’s decision to launch an illegal war against Iran without Congressional authorization and without presenting a clear plan to the American people. Ultimately, this vote is about the legitimacy of our democracy and our constitution, and that is why I will be voting yes on the War Powers Resolution.”
Below is a transcript of Rep. Ansari’s full remarks as delivered on the House Floor:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The Islamic Republic is a barbaric, corrupt regime that has murdered, imprisoned, and terrorized its own people for decades.
As the daughter of Iranian immigrants who fled this regime, I know personally what its violence means.
Members of my family and friends have been brutalized and murdered by the Islamic Republic. My grandfather was imprisoned by the regime, and my family member was beheaded by them. The horror stories go on.
So let me be very clear: I have spent my entire life opposing the Islamic Republic and its brutality, and I celebrate the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
At the same time, as an American Congresswoman who swore an oath to the United States Constitution, I am deeply concerned by President Trump’s decision to launch an illegal war – because it is, in fact, illegal – against Iran without Congressional authorization and without presenting a clear plan to the American people.
War carries profound and deadly consequences for our troops, for the American people, and for the entire world. It’s the most serious decision that a nation can make, and the American people deserve debate, transparency, and accountability before that decision is made.
The Constitution is clear: the power to declare war rests with Congress. I want nothing more than a free Iran and safety and security for innocent Iranians. That requires more than force. It requires seriousness, accountability, and a real plan to support the Iranian people in determining their own future.
Donald Trump has shown at every instance that freedom for the people of Iran is not his priority. Every few hours the administration jumps to a new justification or objective for this war, but never is a democratic transition and self-determination for Iranians a part of the discussion. This was echoed last night by senior administration officials at the briefing to members of Congress.
Ultimately, this vote is about the legitimacy of our democracy and our constitution, and that is why I will be voting yes on the War Powers Resolution.
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