1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I write today with profound alarm and deep outrage over the decision by the Executive Branch — under your direction, Mr. President — to initiate large-scale military action against the Islamic Republic of Iran without congressional authorization. This action, which has already escalated into an open conflict across the Middle East, represents a breathtaking abdication of constitutional responsibility and an erosion of America’s lawful commitment to democratic governance. The Constitution is clear: only Congress possesses the authority to declare war or authorize the use of military force abroad. Yet here we are — American forces engaged in a sustained strike campaign dubbed “Operation Epic Fury,” significant military operations targeting sovereign territory, and the specter of a wider regional war unfolding — all without a single formal vote from the people’s representatives. This unilateral action flagrantly circumvents both the War Powers Resolution and the very safeguards the Founders built to prevent a slide into endless foreign entanglements. Members of both parties in Congress have condemned the strikes as “unauthorized acts of war,” demanding immediate legislative oversight and a vote to approve or reject continued military involvement — a demand that should be beyond dispute in a constitutional republic. Moreover, launching military strikes with the ostensible aim of regime change — a mission with no clear strategy, objectives, or viable endgame — betrays the lessons of history. Americans have seen how poorly defined wars in the Middle East have cost thousands of American lives, trillions of dollars, and generations worth of geopolitical instability. It is unconscionable to commit our service members to such a nightmare without transparent justification to the American people and their elected representatives. The declaration of war is not a trivial administrative action or a mere checkbox. It is a solemn decision that binds the fate of this nation, its troops, and its global standing. You have an obligation — not only to abide by law, but to honor the trust placed in you by millions of Americans who oppose unnecessary conflict and who expect lawful governance. I demand that you immediately answer the following: 1. On what legal authority did the Executive initiate these strikes absent congressional authorization? 2. Why was Congress not consulted before this significant escalation of military force? 3. What are the defined objectives and exit strategy for this conflict? 4. When will Congress be given the opportunity to debate and vote on a formal authorization for the use of force? America does not need another open-ended war forced upon it by executive fiat. The citizens, soldiers, and taxpayers of this country deserve accountability, transparency, and adherence to the Constitution. Anything less is an affront to the rule of law, to democratic principles, and to the sacrifices of the generations who came before us.