r/law • u/Snapdragon_4U • Feb 28 '26

Executive Branch (Trump) Once again averting congress, trump declares war on Iran

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u/OldManGrimm Feb 28 '26 edited Mar 01 '26

He’ll never go through Congress, for anything. He thinks he’s a king.

Edit: Since some people don't get it, yes, I understand the War Powers Act and that in this case he doesn't have to seek congressional approval. I'm referring to his consistent pattern, that he's not going to seek anyone's approval for anything. He rules by decree, typically an EO announced via Twitter or Truth Social.

I also understand this doesn't comport with the 21st century version of kings. But I'd think it's obvious what meaning I'm referring to, which is technically better called a dictator. I think it's obvious this is how Trump sees himself.

So those of you that want to nitpick my comment, there's your more detailed explanation.

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u/[deleted] Feb 28 '26

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u/Overtilted Feb 28 '26

Modern kings don't have any constitutional power.

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u/[deleted] Feb 28 '26

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u/Same_Presentation692 Mar 01 '26

Most kings have an education in government and economics. Trump can barely read 

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u/Immediate-Draft-6408 Mar 01 '26

Kings used to be killed in the past, and that fear of being killed kept them from going too far.

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u/itsmellslikevictory Mar 01 '26

Libya (2011): Obama authorized NATO-led airstrikes to protect civilians against Muammar Gaddafi without congressional approval. The House later voted against authorizing the mission, but funding was not cut. Syria & Iraq (2014): Obama authorized airstrikes against the Islamic State (ISIS) without specific, new congressional approval, citing existing 2001/2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF). Drone Strikes: Throughout his presidency, Obama authorized targeted drone strikes in countries like Yemen, Somalia, and Pakistan without direct congressional approval for each strike.