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An Open Letter

To: Sen. Grassley, Sen. Ernst, Rep. Feenstra

From: A verified voter in Ames, IA

February 28

I am writing as a concerned constituent regarding President Trump’s recent military action in Iran and the broader implications for constitutional authority, fiscal responsibility, and national priorities. First, I am deeply troubled by what many legal scholars have described as an unauthorized or unconstitutional use of military force. The decision to engage in hostilities against another nation is one of the gravest powers entrusted to our government, and the Constitution clearly vests the authority to declare war in Congress. If this action was taken without explicit congressional authorization, I would like to know whether you believe it meets constitutional standards, and if so, on what legal basis. Second, while billions of dollars are being directed toward military operations abroad, millions of children in the United States continue to experience food insecurity. It is difficult to reconcile massive defense expenditures with the reality that many American families struggle to put food on the table. Our national strength should be reflected not only in military capability, but in how well we care for our own people—especially children. Finally, I am concerned by reports that approximately $10 billion in taxpayer funds were redirected to support an initiative described as a “Board of Peace,” which was subsequently undermined by immediate military escalation. If these reports are accurate, this raises serious questions about transparency, congressional oversight, and the lawful use of appropriated funds. I ask that you clarify: Whether Congress authorized both the military action and the associated funding decisions. Whether you support a formal investigation into the allocation and use of these funds. What steps you will take to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not diverted without proper authorization or oversight. Accountability, constitutional governance, and responsible stewardship of public funds are not partisan issues—they are foundational principles of our republic. I urge you to address these concerns clearly and publicly. I look forward to your response.

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