Staff Reports
In the tumultuous arena of American politics, there are few spectacles as entertaining as when the Left gets riled up over executive actions, except when it’s their own party taking them. With recent activities by the current administration, the opponents are predictably losing it. One example at the forefront of this political theater is the decision by President Trump to take decisive action without slowing down to ask Congress for permission. It has sent some folks into quite the tizzy.
Senator Tim Kaine, for one, seems to be calling out from every rooftop available, insisting that the President had no business acting unilaterally against Iran without congressional consultation. Of course, it’s fascinating how the same individuals who cry foul now were conveniently applauding similar actions under President Obama. When Obama aimed at Libya, the silence from this camp was deafening. History has a way of repeating itself, yet some choose to be selectively forgetful. It seems some folks have a short memory when it comes to which end of Pennsylvania Avenue wields power.
The President’s recent action, much to the chagrin of the Left, is seen as a mere tactical move rather than a grand suggestion of regime change. Congress, ever eager to examine every detail through a magnifying glass they’ve buried in dust for years, scoffs at the use of cruise missiles, labeling it an offensive move. Yet, they seemed quite fine with similar military maneuvers when their political heroes were calling the shots. Talk about a tale as old as time—one standard for their allies and another for everyone else.
However, let’s not be naive; there are real concerns about what happens if the regime in Iran were to collapse and chaos reigns as it did in Iraq. For many Iranians, both those in the diaspora and within, the possibility of a power vacuum isn’t something they desire, and frankly, who can blame them? Yet, among those yearning for democracy, there’s an underlying hope that maybe, just maybe, this time, things could be different. It’s a delicate balancing act where the stakes are as high as they come. But expecting Congress to join hands in unison is like believing in Santa Claus—a charming fairy tale.
Lastly, it would be simplistic to overlook the complexities on the ground in Iran, where different factions exist, each with their agendas. The administration, unlike some members of Congress, isn’t deluded by the idea that toppling the existing power structure overnight will magically transform the region. Instead, the focus remains on changing behaviors. After all, it’s been done before. Remember Reagan? A couple of strategically placed military actions had Iran whistling a new tune, at least for a while. So maybe, instead of wringing hands over hypothetical scenarios and drafting long-winded condemnations, a tip of the hat is due to firm steps that remind regimes they can’t act with impunity.
