WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) spoke on the House Floor and called for House Republicans to reject blind loyalty to Donald Trump and vote to rein in his reckless war of choice in Iran. Below is a transcript of her remarks:
"Six weeks ago, Democrats brought a War Powers Resolution to this House Floor. We called on Republicans to join us and bring this conflict to an end. They refused.
"Mike Johnson declared with pride that Donald Trump's mission 'is nearly accomplished.'
"Well, six weeks later, what are Americans seeing? Gas prices out of control. Grocery prices going up. A fertilizer shortage that is threatening to drive prices even higher. Americans are seeing hundreds of casualties in a war that no one has given them the respect to explain.
"But one thing is clear: Americans are being asked to foot the bill. With the lives of their sons and daughters. And with the $2 billion a day that we are spending on this conflict that could be going to help Americans afford to go see a doctor. Or help feed our seniors and hungry veterans. To help drive down and help Americans who are working hard and not making it afford the rising cost of gas and housing and groceries being driven ever higher by this conflict.
"Before this war, we were in a position of strength. Iran was weakened. The Strait of Hormuz was in no danger of being closed. But now, Donald Trump and his enablers have marched us into a position of far more weakness. Our goal now, of this conflict, is to return to the status quo before this conflict? But who is paying the price? Who is paying the price for this? It's the American people.
"And don't take my word for it. President Donald Trump told us: because of this war, 'it is not possible for us to take care of day care, Medicaid, Medicare' Imagine that.
"That's an 'American working family last' doctrine.
"Today, Republicans have a choice. Are you going to continue to enable him and his madness? Or are you going to prioritize Americans, the working families of this country — and vote yes for this resolution?"
To watch the full speech, click HERE.
Whip Clark Urges Passage of Bipartisan War Powers Resolution
April 16, 2026
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