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◆ Mixed look for PaulForeign PolicyDefense / Military

Two Republicans Cave to Trump and Vote to Kill War Powers Resolution

Paul voted present, saying his choice would give Trump more room to negotiate a lasting peace.

Two Republicans Cave to Trump and Vote to Kill War Powers Resolution
Image · The New Republic

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Outlet credibilityThe New Republic64/100 MEDIUM
This article1 analysis · Oct 5, 2026
tl;dr

Senators Bill Cassidy and Rand Paul changed their positions on a Senate war-powers measure after President Trump criticized Republicans who had supported limiting his authority over Iran. The article says the votes were largely symbolic and would not have forced a change in Trump’s actions.

Community verdict

11 VOTES
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Rand Paul R · KY · SEN
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People in this story

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Rand Paul
R · KY · SEN

Senator who changed his position on the war-powers measure

PRIMARY SUBJECT
Bill Cassidy
R · LA · SEN

Senator who changed his vote on the war-powers resolution

Cassidy's version of this story ↗
Donald Trump
R · President of the United States

President who criticized senators supporting the resolution and celebrated its rejection

Trump's version of this story ↗
Lindsey Graham
Former U.S. Senator (R-SC)

Senator mentioned in Trump’s response to the vote

Bernie Moreno
R · OH · SEN

Senator mentioned in Trump’s response to the vote

John Thune
R · SD · SEN

Senate majority leader mentioned in Trump’s response to the vote

J.D. Vance
Vice President of the United States

Vice President who briefed Cassidy at the White House

ALSO MENTIONED  Steve Witkoff, Middle East envoy who briefed Cassidy at the White House

Part of a bigger story

11 OUTLETS
Rand Paul and Bill Cassidy Change Votes on Iran War Powers Resolution

The Senate rejected an Iran war-powers resolution after Rand Paul voted present and Bill Cassidy voted against it, reversing earlier support. Left-leaning outlets frame the changed votes as yielding to Trump’s pressure. Center outlets focus on the Senate vote and changed positions, with some also noting Trump’s celebration or Paul’s stated wish to leave room to negotiate. Right-leaning outlets present the rejection as a win for Trump or his negotiating leverage, while noting Paul’s stated rationale.

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