CNN host Michael Smerconish used his weekend program to press Congress to take a clear position on the ongoing U.S. military conflict with Iran, arguing that lawmakers are running out of time to act under the War Powers Resolution.
Opening his segment, Smerconish framed the issue in direct terms: whether the United States should prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. In his view, that question should guide the next step. If lawmakers believe stopping Iran’s nuclear ambitions is essential, he said, then they should formally authorize the military action needed to achieve that goal.
His comments come as Congress approaches an April 28 deadline tied to the War Powers Resolution, which generally requires lawmakers to approve or halt military engagements within a set period. The current conflict has stretched beyond 40 days since U.S. forces became involved following joint strikes with Israel, putting added pressure on Congress to respond.
Smerconish argued that a narrowly focused authorization—specifically aimed at Iran’s nuclear program—would serve multiple purposes. It would provide the president with clearer legal authority, he said, while also ensuring that Congress takes responsibility for the decision. At the same time, he suggested it would remove any incentive for Iran to simply wait out the political clock in Washington.
He also took aim at how Congress has handled the situation so far, criticizing what he described as procedural delays and a lack of decisive action. In particular, he called on Democrats to move beyond what he characterized as symbolic votes and instead take a firm position on the broader question of the war itself.
At the heart of his argument was the idea that lawmakers should not let political calculations about President Donald Trump drive their decisions. Instead, he said, the focus should remain on national interests. If members of Congress believe the military campaign is misguided, they should vote to end it. If they believe it is necessary, they should formally authorize it.
The War Powers Resolution allows a president to deploy U.S. forces without prior authorization for a limited period, typically up to 60 days. After that, continued military involvement generally requires congressional approval. With that window closing, the debate has taken on new urgency.
Recent developments in the region have added to the complexity. U.S. Central Command reported earlier this month that American forces had begun mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route. That followed statements from the White House indicating that Iran had agreed to a ceasefire and the reopening of the waterway as part of broader diplomatic efforts.
Against that backdrop, Smerconish’s message was straightforward: Congress should stop delaying and make a clear decision, one way or the other, before the legal deadline forces the issue.
