The Senate late Wednesday rejected a measure aimed at restricting President Trump's power to wage war against Iran, in a 50 to 47 vote. Two Republicans—Sens. Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski—voted in favor of advancing the resolution by Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine, while Republican Sen. Rand Paul voted present and Democratic Sen. John Fetterman voted no.
Just one day earlier, four Republicans voted yes on a separate House-passed resolution to restrict Mr. Trump's war powers, allowing it to narrowly pass. The Kaine resolution would have directed Mr. Trump to remove U.S. forces from hostilities against Iran unless authorized by Congress. However, the Trump administration argued the U.S. is no longer engaged in hostilities with Iran and believes the 1973 War Powers Resolution is unconstitutional.
The resolution's practical impact was unclear, as the president would likely have vetoed it. Mr. Trump has publicly and privately expressed frustration over congressional rebukes, arguing they undermine his efforts to negotiate with Iran. A closed-door meeting earlier Wednesday reportedly turned into a shouting match over the issue.