This is America: How Trump bypassed Congress on Iran war

In this episode of This is America, hosted by Anna Burns-Francis, Al Jazeera examines growing tension between the White House and Congress over war powers, as President Trump negotiates with Iran while lawmakers demand a clearer endgame. White House chief correspondent Alan Fisher reported that Trump believes "the power sits squarely" with him, having bypassed Congress before launching the war and now negotiating a potential deal without consultation. On Capitol Hill, Patty Culhane noted that despite Republican control of both chambers, lawmakers face a political dilemma: public polling shows the war is unpopular, independents disapprove, and the cost-of-living crisis is raising voter concerns ahead of the midterms. Manuel Rapalo reported from Washington, DC that war costs surpassed $18bn in just three weeks, with the Pentagon seeking $200bn in supplemental funding, sparking bipartisan concern. The programme featured a panel with former Obama policy advisor Laurie Watkins and DC Republican Party chairman Patrick Mara. Watkins argued Congress has been "kept in the dark," demanding cost transparency and a defined endgame before funding approval. Mara defended executive authority for security reasons but acknowledged fiscally conservative Republicans could pose obstacles. Media coverage reflected the debate: The Washington Post questioned Congress’s resolve, Fox News analysts backed presidential war powers, Jon Stewart satirised congressional inaction, and Democratic senators condemned a "reckless war" after a War Powers resolution failed along party lines. The episode also highlighted broader economic impacts, from fertiliser shortages to inflation. Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe Follow us on X: https://X.com/AJEnglish Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/ Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/ Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.news/AJEMobile #UnitedStates #ThisIsAmerica #IranWar #DonaldTrump #USIsraelWarOnIran #USCongress #StraitOfHormuz #CongressWarPowers #WarPowersResultion #USMilitaryFunding #USMidterms #ThisIsAmerica #AlJazeeraEnglish