President Donald Trump announced that the American military has bombed three Iranian nuclear sites, a move that has been met with a mixed reaction from both sides of the political aisle. Georgia Democrats are no exception.
The strikes came a week after Israel struck down members of the Iranian General Staff and other nuclear sites. President Trump weighed whether to get involved over concerns that Iran was close to attaining a nuclear device.
Trump ultimately decided to act, and now many fear that this could escalate into another forever war.
Georgia Democrats are mixed, with some expressing their stance and others remaining quiet. The progressives have been more outspoken, while the moderates have been silent.
Sen. Raphael Warnock (D) raised concerns in an official statement. He said that ordering service members into battle should never be taken lightly, and it is a major responsibility of the President.
Warnock went on to criticize Trump for not seeking congressional approval before ordering the strikes. He also criticized the President for disagreeing with his advisors and not explaining the necessity of the operation to Congress.
Warnock’s statement concluded with worry over retaliation from Iran against American troops. He stated, “This is war. And this is not the first time the American people have been told it will end quickly.”
On the other hand, Sen. Jon Ossoff (D) has yet to weigh in on the matter. As someone who portrays himself as a moderate Democrat, Ossoff is likely waiting to see how it all plays out.
Rep. Hank Johnson (D), who is more progressive, issued a short statement. He commented, “Trump First. Netanyahu Second. America Last.”
Johnson is under the impression that Trump only struck Iran to benefit his image and strengthen his relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu. He doesn’t seem to think that these strikes benefit the U.S. whatsoever.
Another member of the House, Rep. Lucy McBath (D), has also waited to comment on the strikes. As someone who poses as a moderate, she is in the same position as Sen. Ossoff.