Congressman Swalwell Slams Trump’s Iran Strikes, Cites ‘No Plan’

Democrats Demand War Powers Vote Amidst Iran Strike Controversy

California Congressman Eric Swalwell, a member of the House Judiciary and Homeland Security Committees, has strongly criticized the recent U.S. military strikes in Iran, asserting that the operations are illegal and lack a clear rationale. Swalwell joined the growing chorus of Democrats demanding an immediate War Powers vote, arguing that the Constitution grants Congress the sole authority to declare war. The congressman, who is also running for Governor of California, expressed deep concern over the administration’s failure to present evidence of provocation or a coherent post-strike strategy.

Swalwell: “We Don’t Just Lob Missiles” Without Provocation

During a recent interview, Congressman Swalwell articulated a clear stance against the unilateral military action. “We don’t just lob missiles into other countries when we are not provoked, attacked and have no plan for what comes next,” he stated. He emphasized that the decision to engage in military conflict should not be taken lightly and requires a clear justification and a well-defined plan for the aftermath. The congressman drew a parallel to previous administrations, questioning the current leadership’s strategic acumen: “Do we think that these guys are smarter than the last gang that tried to go into the Middle East without any plans?”

“We don’t just lob missiles into other countries when we are not provoked, attacked and have no plan for what comes next.”

Congressman Eric Swalwell

Concerns Over Homeland Security and Leadership

Swalwell also voiced apprehension regarding the individuals tasked with protecting the U.S. homeland, specifically mentioning Kash Patel and Kristi Noem. He expressed alarm, stating, “My God, we are in trouble If those are the two who are protecting the homeland.” This comment underscored his broader critique of the administration’s decision-making, suggesting a potential disconnect between national security priorities and the competency of key personnel.

War Powers Act: A Test of Congressional Authority

The focus now shifts to the impending War Powers Act vote. Swalwell anticipates that the resolution will pass, signaling Congress’s intent to reassert its constitutional authority. “It’s saying that he has to come to Congress, but we should make it clear what we would do if he asked. And that’s why I’m saying the answer has to be hell no,” he declared. While acknowledging that a president could veto such a resolution, Swalwell stressed the importance of the vote as a statement of congressional will and a potential source of leverage.

Swalwell Contrasts Trump’s Promises with Actions

In a striking comparison, Swalwell pointed out an area of agreement with former President Donald Trump, who had previously suggested that a president might initiate a war with Iran due to perceived weakness. “I agree with that,” Swalwell said, before pivoting to a broader indictment of the current administration’s broken promises. “He said that he would get rid of wars. And now we are here. We are just a year into the administration. We have two new wars on the map in Venezuela and Iran. He has done the exact opposite this entire presidency of what he told Americans he was going to do.”

Lack of Evidence for Imminent Threat

A central point of contention is the administration’s justification for the strikes. Swalwell, along with other members of Congress, including Senator Warner, has stated that no evidence has been presented to demonstrate an imminent threat from Iran to the United States or its allies in the region. “No evidence that has been presented to anyone in Congress that I know,” Swalwell asserted. He criticized the administration’s credibility, noting past instances of alleged deception. “Look, these guys have been caught lying to the press thousands of times. They’ve been caught lying to judges dozens of times. They are not to be trusted.”

Historical Context and Unintended Consequences

The congressman delved into historical context, referencing the 1950s U.S. intervention that led to the overthrow of the Mosaddegh administration and the subsequent rise of the Shah, who was eventually ousted. Swalwell argued that such interventions have historically created chaos and instability. “In fact, you could argue that we, by trying to involve ourselves there, have created the chaos in Iran,” he posited. He criticized the current president’s lack of a plan and the absence of leaders who inspire confidence in achieving a better outcome, emphasizing that freedom and democracy for the Iranian people must arise from within the country, not from external military actions.

Distraction from Domestic Issues

Swalwell suggested that the military actions in Iran may serve as a distraction from pressing domestic issues. He alluded to the cost of living crisis, rising prices, and ongoing revelations concerning the Epstein files. “He doesn’t want to face the real issues in America. And so it seems It seems like this is just a distraction so that he doesn’t have to come to grips with the reality,” Swalwell stated. He concluded by highlighting the economic burden on Americans, noting that the strikes have done nothing to lower the cost of groceries, gas, or goods, while also resulting in the loss of American lives.

Looking Ahead: Congressional Oversight and Future Actions

As the War Powers Act vote approaches, all eyes will be on Congress to see if it can successfully challenge the executive branch’s unilateral decision to engage in military conflict. The outcome of this vote will be a significant indicator of the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches regarding matters of war and peace. Furthermore, the administration’s ability to present a coherent and evidence-based rationale for its actions, and its plans for de-escalation and regional stability, will be closely scrutinized in the coming weeks.

Source: Trump ‘said he would get rid of wars, but here we are’ in Iran: Dem Rep. (YouTube)