Democrats Weigh Using December Funding Deadline to Force End to Iran War

Congressional Democrats are considering using the December 11 government funding deadline to force an end to the war in Iran. Senator Chris Van Hollen stated he will not vote for a funding bill that does not defund the war, arguing the public wants the conflict ended. With Republicans holding a Senate majority until January 3, they would require at least seven Democratic votes to pass a funding bill and overcome a filibuster.

• Some congressional Democrats may refuse to vote for a government funding bill that includes funding for the war in Iran.
• They are considering using the December 11 funding deadline to push for an end to the conflict.
• Senator Chris Van Hollen has stated he will not support a funding bill unless it defunds the war.
• Republicans need at least seven Democratic votes to pass a funding bill in the current Senate composition.
• The new Congress is sworn in on January 3, after which Democrats will have a majority.