House Repeals Iraq War Powers Within $893 Billion Defense Bill

In a significant move to reclaim congressional authority over war powers, the House of Representatives voted to repeal the 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force, which had authorized the invasion of Iraq and been used by multiple presidents to justify military actions in the Middle East. The repeal amendment, supported by a bipartisan majority, was attached to the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes nearly $893 billion in defense spending, including a 3.8% pay raise for service members and expanded troop levels. While the defense bill aims to reform military acquisition processes and enhance military readiness against adversaries like China, it also sparked controversy due to included social policy provisions restricting transgender service and abortion services. Democratic lawmakers criticized the defense bill for political culture war elements and insufficient restrictions on presidential use of the National Guard. The repeal of the Iraq War authorizations reflects growing bipartisan concern that these outdated mandates grant presidents excessive unilateral war powers, a point underscored by recent military actions taken by President Trump without prior Congressional approval. The legislation now awaits conference negotiations with the Senate before being sent to the White House for enactment.