usatoday--2020-01-09--Trump, Tehran step back from war footing after Iran's attack on military bases in Iraq

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump sought to lower tensions with Iran Wednesday , a day after Tehran fired more than a dozen rockets at Iraqi bases hosting U.S. troops , a move that raised fears the two countries were hurtling toward war .
Trump used a nine-minute televised address to announce new sanctions on Iran and tout the might of U.S. armed services .
But just as remarkable was what his address did not include : a direct threat to respond militarily to Iran ’ s action , which was a retaliation for a U.S. drone strike that killed top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official told USA TODAY that there were indications that Iran 's attack on the bases was intended to send a message rather than to kill U.S. soldiers .
Iran appears to have fired its missiles into areas of the bases that were unpopulated and where significant damage would be unlikely , said the official , who was not authorized to speak publicly .
Still , Army Gen. Mark Milley , chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff , pushed back on the notion that Iran deliberately sought to minimize damage .
Milley told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'to kill personnel , ’ according to The Associated Press .
Flanked by top military officials and members of his Cabinet , including Defense Secretary Mark Esper , the president said there were no casualties from the attack and told Iran he saw a possibility for negotiation .
“ We want you to have a future and a great future – one that you deserve , one of prosperity at home , and harmony with the nations of the world , ” he said .
“ The United States is ready to embrace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump 's speech : President warns Iran but says US 'ready to embrace peace with all who seek it' Iran crisis : What you need to know about rising U.S.-Iran tensions after Soleimani 's death Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif framed the attack as a measure of “ self defense ” in a tweet after the missiles landed .
“ We do not seek escalation or war , but will defend ourselves against any aggression , ” Zarif wrote .
The potential for mass casualties from Iran 's attack was real : There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iraqi troops at al Assad air base in Western Iraq , one of the sites Iran targeted .
Precision drone and missile strikes by Iranian-backed forces in September that severely damaged oil production facilities in Saudi Arabia supported the belief that Iran has the capability to strike targets with lethal force .
But given the limited damage , the U.S. official said the attack appeared designed mainly for a domestic audience to show Iranians that the regime was responding to the killing of Soleimani .
Iran has also repeatedly called for the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how to hit a target when they want to destroy it , said a second U.S. official with knowledge of Iranian capabilities who was not authorized to speak publicly .
Such an attack would have caused `` grave damage , '' the official said .
It is possible that more moderate elements in the Iranian government are pushing for restraint , the official said .
A senior staff member on Capitol Hill said the Iranians appeared to deliberately choose their targets as a warning , not to inflict major damage .
The dizzying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critical moment in Trump ’ s presidency , testing a foreign policy that has rested on unwinding President Barack Obama ’ s effort to reach out to Iran through a multination nuclear agreement that offered sanctions relief in exchange for Tehran curbing its nuclear program .
Trump has long argued that agreement was too lenient on Iran .
To underscore the point , Trump vowed Iran would “ never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon ” during his presidency even before he said “ good morning ” in his remarks Wednesday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. out of foreign entanglements but also has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran , said he would encourage NATO allies to `` become much more involved in the Middle East process.
” Tensions between the U.S. and Iran , already on the rise for the months , escalated dramatically after the U.S. killed Soleimani in a drone strike near the Baghdad International Airport last week .
Soleimani was the leader of Iran 's elite Quds Force and one of the country 's most powerful leaders .
Administration officials said Trump ordered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacks on Americans in the Middle East and that he presented an imminent threat , though they have not detailed the extent of that planning .
Iran struck back late Tuesday – just before dawn in Iraq – firing more than a dozen missiles at U.S. troops and coalition forces in Erbil and at the al Assad base .
On Capitol Hill , lawmakers expressed relief that Trump did not order further military action .
“ It ’ s still a volatile situation , but I ’ m glad it hasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chance at a resolution , ” said Rep. Ro Khanna , D-Calif. , who had introduced legislation to limit military action .
Sen. Lindsey Graham , R-S.C. , a close ally of the president , said Iran should heed Trump ’ s words .
“ To the Iranian people and the regime : He 's giving you a chance to end this peacefully , ” Graham said .
“ He 's given you a chance for peace and prosperity .
You should take it .
”

John Fritze, Tom Vanden Brook and Michael Collins, USA TODAY

Trump, Tehran step back from war footing after Iran's attack on military bases in Iraq
Show Caption Hide Caption Are we really ready for a World War III? Fears are mounting around the world following the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani - but is World War 3 about to happen? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump sought to lower tensions with Iran Wednesday, a day after Tehran fired more than a dozen rockets at Iraqi bases hosting U.S. troops, a move that raised fears the two countries were hurtling toward war.
Trump used a nine-minute televised address to announce new sanctions on Iran and tout the might of U.S. armed services. But just as remarkable was what his address did not include: a direct threat to respond militarily to Iran’s action, which was a retaliation for a U.S. drone strike that killed top Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani.
A U.S. official told USA TODAY that there were indications that Iran's attack on the bases was intended to send a message rather than to kill U.S. soldiers. Iran appears to have fired its missiles into areas of the bases that were unpopulated and where significant damage would be unlikely, said the official, who was not authorized to speak publicly.
Still, Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, pushed back on the notion that Iran deliberately sought to minimize damage. Milley told reporters he believed the attacks were designed 'to kill personnel,’ according to The Associated Press.
Flanked by top military officials and members of his Cabinet, including Defense Secretary Mark Esper, the president said there were no casualties from the attack and told Iran he saw a possibility for negotiation.
“We want you to have a future and a great future – one that you deserve, one of prosperity at home, and harmony with the nations of the world,” he said. “The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it.”
Trump's speech: President warns Iran but says US 'ready to embrace peace with all who seek it'
Iran crisis: What you need to know about rising U.S.-Iran tensions after Soleimani's death
Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif framed the attack as a measure of “self defense” in a tweet after the missiles landed.
“We do not seek escalation or war, but will defend ourselves against any aggression,” Zarif wrote.
The potential for mass casualties from Iran's attack was real: There are about 1,500 U.S., coalition and Iraqi troops at al Assad air base in Western Iraq, one of the sites Iran targeted. Precision drone and missile strikes by Iranian-backed forces in September that severely damaged oil production facilities in Saudi Arabia supported the belief that Iran has the capability to strike targets with lethal force.
But given the limited damage, the U.S. official said the attack appeared designed mainly for a domestic audience to show Iranians that the regime was responding to the killing of Soleimani. Iran has also repeatedly called for the U.S. to leave Iraq.
The Iranians know how to hit a target when they want to destroy it, said a second U.S. official with knowledge of Iranian capabilities who was not authorized to speak publicly. Such an attack would have caused "grave damage," the official said. It is possible that more moderate elements in the Iranian government are pushing for restraint, the official said.
A senior staff member on Capitol Hill said the Iranians appeared to deliberately choose their targets as a warning, not to inflict major damage.
The dizzying series of events this week marked a critical moment in Trump’s presidency, testing a foreign policy that has rested on unwinding President Barack Obama’s effort to reach out to Iran through a multination nuclear agreement that offered sanctions relief in exchange for Tehran curbing its nuclear program. Trump has long argued that agreement was too lenient on Iran.
To underscore the point, Trump vowed Iran would “never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon” during his presidency even before he said “good morning” in his remarks Wednesday.
Trump, who has pledged to keep the U.S. out of foreign entanglements but also has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran, said he would encourage NATO allies to "become much more involved in the Middle East process.”
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran, already on the rise for the months, escalated dramatically after the U.S. killed Soleimani in a drone strike near the Baghdad International Airport last week. Soleimani was the leader of Iran's elite Quds Force and one of the country's most powerful leaders.
Administration officials said Trump ordered the drone strike because Soleimani was plotting attacks on Americans in the Middle East and that he presented an imminent threat, though they have not detailed the extent of that planning.
Iran struck back late Tuesday – just before dawn in Iraq – firing more than a dozen missiles at U.S. troops and coalition forces in Erbil and at the al Assad base.
On Capitol Hill, lawmakers expressed relief that Trump did not order further military action.
“It’s still a volatile situation, but I’m glad it hasn’t escalated and there’s still a chance at a resolution,” said Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., who had introduced legislation to limit military action.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., a close ally of the president, said Iran should heed Trump’s words.
“To the Iranian people and the regime: He's giving you a chance to end this peacefully,” Graham said. “He's given you a chance for peace and prosperity. You should take it.”


usatoday--2020-01-09--House votes to limit Trump's ability to wage war with Iran after Soleimani killing

WASHINGTON – The House of Representatives passed a resolution Thursday aimed at curbing President Donald Trump 's ability to wage war against Iran amid concerns about the escalation of tensions following the U.S. killing of Gen. Qasem Soleimani , a top Iranian general .
Congressional Democrats have sharply criticized the Trump administration for not consulting Congress on the Soleimani strike and have accused him of recklessness in his decision-making on Iran .
“ The American people do not want war with Iran .
With the measure before us today , we are denying the president the authority to wage such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chair Eliot Engel , D-N.Y .
The vote broke down largely along partisan lines , garnering overwhelming support from Democrats , but 3 Republicans backed it and 8 Democrats voted against it .
'Wars cost ' : Veterans have a message as tensions rise with Iran The House measure 's sponsor , Rep. Elissa Slotkin , D-Mich. , called the debate over war powers a “ constitutional duty.
” “ If our loved ones are going to be sent in any protracted war , the president owes our public a conversation , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying it had no teeth in curbing the president 's authority when it comes to Iran .
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy , R-Calif. , said the resolution has `` no power whatsoever '' and called the vote `` meaningless . ''
`` It will never be sent to the president , and it will never limit his constitutional authority to defend the American people , '' he said .
`` This is the type of resolution that we invite the soapbox derby to the Capitol .
McCarthy also said the bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country needed to come together , arguing Democrats were using the resolution to air their “ hatred ” of the president .
The War Powers Act of 1973 allows Congress to pass legislation to force a withdrawal when military forces are engaged in conflict outside U.S. borders , but a 1983 Supreme Court decision said acts of Congress needed to be presented to the president to be legally binding .
The resolution will now go to the Republican-controlled Senate for consideration , though it does not have to be signed by the president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ join with Democrats to back it .
The Senate is considering its own version of the measure to force a military withdrawal sponsored by Sen. Tim Kaine , D-Va. Kaine ’ s version differs slightly , as it is a joint resolution , which carries the force of law , whereas the resolution passed in the House is a concurrent resolution , which does not .
But so far , at least two Senate Republicans have voiced support for the measure .
The House 's 224-194 vote in favor of the measure reflected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s powers to wage war .
Rep. Max Rose , D-N.Y. , who voted against the resolution , said he would “ refuse to play politics with questions of war and peace , ” arguing the resolution did not go far enough to check presidential war powers .
Rose wanted a repeal of the 2002 Authorization of Use of Military Force instead .
unningham said this vote sends the “ wrong message.
” “ President Trump committed to de-escalating the situation over in Iran and I stand behind that commitment , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think Congress needs to be saying the message that we 're not with the President on that position.
“ Rep. Thomas Massie , R-Ky. , one of the few Republicans to vote with Democrats on the measure , said he supported Trump but would back the legislation because “ this vote is about exercising our constitutional authority but more importantly , our moral obligation to decide when and where our troops are going to be asked to give their lives.
” Rep. Matt Gaetz , R-Fla. , normally a staunch ally of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It 's ludicrous to suggest we 're preventing the troops from their job by doing our job , '' he said .
In a tweet Thursday morning , President Donald Trump slammed the resolution as `` another Democrat fraud '' and `` Presidential harassment , '' adding that he hoped all congressional Republicans would vote against it .
Though some Republicans argued the Trump administration does not need further congressional approval for military actions against Iran , others criticized the administration 's handling of the process .
The classified briefings given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left lawmakers split mostly along party lines .
Most Republicans said they were satisfied with the administration 's explanation for the Soleimani strike , and Democrats said they were `` unconvinced . ''
Coming out of one of the classified briefings , Sen. Mike Lee , R-Utah , called it `` the worst briefing I ’ ve had on a military issue in my nine years '' in the Senate .
“ It is not acceptable , ” a furious Lee said , “ to come in and tell us that we ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military intervention against Iran .
It 's un-American .
It 's unconstitutional .
And it 's wrong .
And I hope and expect that they will show greater deference to their own limited power in the future.
” Lee and Sen. Rand Paul , R-Ky. , said they would support Kaine ’ s war powers measure .
In an address Wednesday , Trump said the United States would authorize further sanctions against Iran rather than taking military action in response to Iranian missile attacks on bases in Iraq housing U.S. troops '' Iran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world , '' Trump said .
In a statement released Wednesday , Pelosi said the House might consider two other pieces of legislation related to congressional war powers .
One bill , from Rep. Ro Khanna , D-Calif. , would bar the use of funds for military action against Iran without congressional approval .
The other , from Rep. Barbara Lee , D-Calif. , would repeal a 2002 authorization for military force against Iraq that administration officials cited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ killing Soleimani .
Legal experts said the House resolution was likely to have more political than legal effect .
“ It ’ s a political signal , and it tells the administration , it tells the world that the United States is not unified behind these actions , ” said Steve Pomper , senior director for policy at the International Crisis Group and a former State Department legal adviser .
More : Exclusive : Americans say Soleimani 's killing made US less safe , Trump 'reckless ' on Iran The resolution on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal tools for political effect ” that would “ force the executive branch to spend some political capital defending the actions , ” said Columbia Law Professor Matthew Waxman .
One reason House Democrats opted to use this kind of resolution , rather than the kind of binding legislation introduced by Kaine , in the Senate , is that Trump would not sign a binding piece of legislation , Pomper said .
“ Imagine a world in which you have a joint resolution that would then go to the president for signature , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t sign it , and then it would be a dead letter .
”

Nicholas Wu and Christal Hayes, USA TODAY

House votes to limit Trump's ability to wage war with Iran after Soleimani killing
Show Caption Hide Caption House votes yes to limit Trump's war powers after killing Soleimani The House passed a vote to limit President Trump's ability to wage war against Iran after concerns following the killing of Gen. Qasem Soleimani. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – The House of Representatives passed a resolution Thursday aimed at curbing President Donald Trump's ability to wage war against Iran amid concerns about the escalation of tensions following the U.S. killing of Gen. Qasem Soleimani, a top Iranian general.
Congressional Democrats have sharply criticized the Trump administration for not consulting Congress on the Soleimani strike and have accused him of recklessness in his decision-making on Iran.
“The American people do not want war with Iran. With the measure before us today, we are denying the president the authority to wage such a war,” Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Eliot Engel, D-N.Y.
The vote broke down largely along partisan lines, garnering overwhelming support from Democrats, but 3 Republicans backed it and 8 Democrats voted against it.
'Wars cost': Veterans have a message as tensions rise with Iran
Iran plane crash: Justin Trudeau says intel shows Ukraine jet downed by Iranian missile
The House measure's sponsor, Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., called the debate over war powers a “constitutional duty.”
“If our loved ones are going to be sent in any protracted war, the president owes our public a conversation,” she said.
Republicans criticized the measure, saying it had no teeth in curbing the president's authority when it comes to Iran. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said the resolution has "no power whatsoever" and called the vote "meaningless."
"It will never be sent to the president, and it will never limit his constitutional authority to defend the American people," he said. "This is the type of resolution that we invite the soapbox derby to the Capitol.
McCarthy also said the bill sowed dissent at a time when the country needed to come together, arguing Democrats were using the resolution to air their “hatred” of the president.
The War Powers Act of 1973 allows Congress to pass legislation to force a withdrawal when military forces are engaged in conflict outside U.S. borders, but a 1983 Supreme Court decision said acts of Congress needed to be presented to the president to be legally binding.
The resolution will now go to the Republican-controlled Senate for consideration, though it does not have to be signed by the president. Passage would require four Republicans to join with Democrats to back it.
The Senate is considering its own version of the measure to force a military withdrawal sponsored by Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va.
Kaine’s version differs slightly, as it is a joint resolution, which carries the force of law, whereas the resolution passed in the House is a concurrent resolution, which does not. But so far, at least two Senate Republicans have voiced support for the measure.
The House's 224-194 vote in favor of the measure reflected debates within both parties about the president’s powers to wage war.
Rep. Max Rose, D-N.Y., who voted against the resolution, said he would “refuse to play politics with questions of war and peace,” arguing the resolution did not go far enough to check presidential war powers. Rose wanted a repeal of the 2002 Authorization of Use of Military Force instead.
Other Democrats felt differently. Rep. Joe Cunningham, D-S.C., said he believed the measure would send the "wrong message."
"President Trump committed to de-escalating the situation over in Iran and I stand behind that commitment," he said. "I don't think Congress needs to be saying the message that we're not with the president on that position."
Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-N.Y. said his qualms with the measure laid with limiting the president's powers. "I don't want to restrict this administration or, frankly, any administration's ability to respond to threats from Iran," he said.
Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., one of the few Republicans to vote with Democrats on the measure, said he supported Trump but was backing the legislation because “this vote is about exercising our constitutional authority but more importantly, our moral obligation to decide when and where our troops are going to be asked to give their lives.”
Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., normally a staunch ally of the president, also voted for the measure.
"It's ludicrous to suggest we're preventing the troops from their job by doing our job," he said.
Rep. Francis Rooney, the third Republican who voted with Democrats in favor of the measure, voiced concern over the president's strategy in the Middle East and stressed the need for "long-term diplomacy."
"I'm not sure what the strategy is," he said. "I'm sure that Soleimani was a super bad guy and there's plenty of them out there. Just start naming them."
In a tweet Thursday morning, President Donald Trump slammed the resolution as "another Democrat fraud" and "Presidential harassment," adding that he hoped all congressional Republicans would vote against it.
Though some Republicans argued the Trump administration does not need further congressional approval for military actions against Iran, others criticized the administration's handling of the process.
The classified briefings given to all members of Congress on Wednesday left lawmakers split mostly along party lines. Most Republicans said they were satisfied with the administration's explanation for the Soleimani strike, and Democrats said they were "unconvinced."
Coming out of one of the classified briefings, Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, called it "the worst briefing I’ve had on a military issue in my nine years" in the Senate.
“It is not acceptable,” a furious Lee said, “to come in and tell us that we can't debate and discuss the appropriateness of military intervention against Iran. It's un-American. It's unconstitutional. And it's wrong. And I hope and expect that they will show greater deference to their own limited power in the future.”
Lee and Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., said they would support Kaine’s war powers measure.
In an address Wednesday, Trump said the United States would authorize further sanctions against Iran rather than taking military action in response to Iranian missile attacks on bases in Iraq housing U.S. troops
"Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world," Trump said.
In a statement released Wednesday, Pelosi said the House might consider two other pieces of legislation related to congressional war powers. One bill, from Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., would bar the use of funds for military action against Iran without congressional approval.
The other, from Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., would repeal a 2002 authorization for military force against Iraq that administration officials cited as part of their legal justification for killing Soleimani.
Legal experts said the House resolution was likely to have more political than legal effect.
“It’s a political signal, and it tells the administration, it tells the world that the United States is not unified behind these actions,” said Steve Pomper, senior director for policy at the International Crisis Group and a former State Department legal adviser.
More: Exclusive: Americans say Soleimani's killing made US less safe, Trump 'reckless' on Iran
The resolution on the House floor was the “use of legal tools for political effect” that would “force the executive branch to spend some political capital defending the actions,” said Columbia Law Professor Matthew Waxman.
One reason House Democrats opted to use this kind of resolution, rather than the kind of binding legislation introduced by Kaine, in the Senate, is that Trump would not sign a binding piece of legislation, Pomper said.
“Imagine a world in which you have a joint resolution that would then go to the president for signature,” he explained. “He wouldn’t sign it, and then it would be a dead letter.”
Are we really ready for a World War III? Fears are mounting around the world following the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani - but is World War 3 about to happen? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Contributing: Deirdre Shesgreen


usatoday--2020-01-09--Iran war powers resolution passes the House, but what does it mean?

Iran war powers resolution passes the House , but what does it mean ?
Iran news : the House passed @ @ @ @ @ rein in the president 's powers , but what does such a non-binding vote mean @

Iran war powers resolution passes the House, but what does it mean?
Iran news: the House passed a war powers resolution to rein in the president's powers, but what does such a non-binding vote mean?
Hannah Gaber, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-01-09--Trump to rally in Ohio amid heightened tensions with Iran, looming impeachment trial

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump will rally supporters in Ohio on Thursday days after a crisis in Iran threatened to upend his presidency and drag the U.S. into war .
For Trump , the rally – his first of 2020 – will provide a venue to explain the latest developments in the Middle East and may signal how the president will frame the complicated and perilous relationship with Tehran during his reelection campaign .
The Toledo rally is one of three Trump has scheduled so far this month .
The others are set for Wisconsin , a critical state for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The president is set to take the stage in Ohio at 7 p.m. EST .
Trump has raised Iran at virtually every political rally he has hosted since entering the White House in 2017 .
His remarks on one of Washington 's most challenging foes in the Middle East have generally focused on the 2015 , multi-national nuclear agreement that offered sanctions relief in exchange for Iran curbing its nuclear program .
Trump pulled the U.S. out of that agreement in 2018 .
`` I withdrew from the horrible one-sided Iran nuclear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Louisiana in November , falling back on a phrase he has used to describe the agreement four dozen times since mid-2018 .
`` You have a president who is standing up for America . ''
But his remarks Thursday will mark his first major political event since he ordered a drone strike last week that killed top Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani .
Iran retaliated Tuesday with a series of rockets aimed at two Iraqi airbases housing U.S. soldiers , though those attacks appeared to have caused only minimal damage .
Both sides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump largely avoided saber-rattling during a nine-minute address to the nation and even suggested the possibility of a diplomatic resolution to the crisis .
Iranian leaders , including foreign minister Javad Zarif described the attack as `` self-defense . ''
Iran crash : Trump says he thinks 'something very terrible happened ' to Ukraine jet Trump address : Trump , Tehran step back from war footing after Iran 's attack in Iraq Trump faced a similar test in 2017 as his rhetoric over North Korea began to boil .
Trump held an Arizona @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks after he threatened to rain `` fire and fury '' on North Korea .
Trump raised the issue at that rally , though his remarks were overshadowed by his comments about the violence in Charlottesville , Va. '' What I said , that 's not strong enough , '' Trump said , referring to his `` fire and fury '' tweet .
`` Some people said it 's too strong ; it 's not strong enough .
But Kim Jong Un , I respect the fact that I believe he is starting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact very much . ''
The rally in Ohio also comes as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is poised to send impeachment articles to the Senate , which will determine whether to remove Trump from office .
Pelosi said Thursday that she would transmit those articles `` soon . ''
The Republican-led Senate is expected to acquit Trump on the charges of abusing his power and obstructing the congressional probe into his interactions with Ukraine .
More : Pelosi says she 'll send Senate articles of impeachment against Trump 'soon' Trump carried Ohio in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the vote .
By rallying in Toledo he can also draw from supporters in nearby Michigan , which he won narrowly .

'We were ready.' Trump signals at Ohio rally that Soleimani strike will be 2020 issue
Show Caption Hide Caption Iran plane crash: Trump thinks 'something very terrible happened' President Donald Trump doesn’t believe mechanical failure caused a Ukrainian jet to crash in Iran and suggested “something very terrible happened.” USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump touted his decision to order the killing of Qasem Soleimani at a campaign rally in Ohio on Thursday, describing the Iranian general as a "sadistic mass murderer" and signaling the confrontation will play into his reelection campaign.
Days after a crisis with Iran threatened to upend his presidency and drag the U.S. into another Middle East war, Trump spoke at length about what he described as "bold and decisive action" to "deliver American justice" via a U.S. drone strike near the Baghdad International Airport that killed Soleimani last week.
"He was looking very seriously at our embassies," Trump said. "We stopped him quickly and we stopped him cold."
The rally – Trump's first of 2020 – provided the president a venue to explain the latest developments in the Middle East and the perilous relationship between the U.S. and Iran to his supporters. Trump's extensive remarks on Iran suggested he will use the strike on Soleimani to laud his foreign policy to voters in this year's election.
Trump touched on the Iranian response to Soleimani's death, saying the U.S. was "ready to go" if Iran's rocket attack inflicted additional damage or resulted in the death of U.S. soldiers stationed on the two Iraqi bases that were targeted. Trump said Iran "hit us with 16 missiles" but that he decided to stand down after he saw the relatively minor impact, which he attributed to a "pretty good warning system."
"So we didn't do anything...Not that I wanted to, but we were ready" he said. "You have no idea. Lot of people got very lucky."
War powers: House votes to limit Trump's ability to wage war with Iran after Soleimani
Are we really ready for a World War III? Fears are mounting around the world following the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani - but is World War 3 about to happen? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
The crowd roared as Trump discussed the strike and blasted Democrats for attempting to curb his ability to launch strikes against Iran. Trump's rally came hours after the Democratic-led House passed a resolution aimed at limiting his war powers. Democrats have criticized Trump for not consulting Congress on the Soleimani strike and have accused him of recklessness.
"We got a call. We heard where he was," Trump said. "And we had to make a decision. We didn't have time to call up Nancy [Pelosi], who is not operating with a full deck."
In the aftermath of the strike against Soleimani Republicans embraced the move and praised Trump for taking action against a country that has been widely perceived as a bad actor in the Middle East. But the president can't necessarily count on the issue unifying American voters ahead of the election.
Americans by more than 2-1 said the killing of Soleimani has made the United States less safe, a nationwide USA TODAY/Ipsos Poll found Thursday. A majority of those surveyed, by 52%-34%, called Trump's behavior with Iran "reckless."
More: Americans say Soleimani's killing made US less safe, Trump 'reckless' on Iran
Americans were divided on the wisdom of the drone strike at the Baghdad airport that killed Soleimani and others: 42% supported it, 33% opposed it; 25% said they didn't know what to think. Republicans were much more supportive than Democrats; independents were almost evenly split.
"We seek friends, not enemies," Trump told the rally audience.
But, he added, "if you dare to threaten our citizens, you do so at your own grave peril."
Minutes after Trump took the stage his remarks were interrupted by protesters holding a banner that read: "NO WAR."
The Toledo rally is one of three Trump has scheduled this month. The others are set for Wisconsin, a critical state for his reelection effort, and New Jersey. It was his first major political event since the confrontation with Iran escalated.
Trump has raised Iran at virtually every political rally he has hosted since entering the White House in 2017. His remarks on one of Washington's most challenging foes in the Middle East have generally focused on the 2015 multi-national nuclear agreement that offered sanctions relief in exchange for Iran curbing its nuclear program.
Trump pulled the U.S. out of that agreement in 2018, arguing it did not do enough to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Iran and the U.S. both moved Wednesday to deescalate the confrontation. Trump largely avoided saber-rattling during a nine-minute address to the nation and even suggested the possibility of a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. Iranian leaders, including foreign minister Javad Zarif described the attack as "self-defense."
Iran crash: Trump says he thinks 'something very terrible happened' to Ukraine jet
Trump address: Trump, Tehran step back from war footing after Iran's attack in Iraq
Trump faced a similar test in 2017 as his rhetoric over North Korea began to boil. Trump held an Arizona rally at the end of August just weeks after he threatened to rain "fire and fury" on North Korea. Trump raised the issue at that rally, though his remarks were overshadowed by his comments about the violence in Charlottesville, Va.
"What I said, that's not strong enough," Trump said, referring to his "fire and fury" tweet. "Some people said it's too strong; it's not strong enough. But Kim Jong Un, I respect the fact that I believe he is starting to respect us. I respect that fact very much."
The rally in Ohio also comes as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is poised to send impeachment articles to the Senate, which will determine whether to remove Trump from office. Pelosi said Thursday that she would transmit those articles "soon." The Republican-led Senate is expected to acquit Trump on the charges of abusing his power and obstructing the congressional probe into his interactions with Ukraine.
Trump slammed Pelosi and other Democrats for pursuing the impeachment, arguing that the House speaker is "not playing with a full deck."
More: Pelosi says she'll send Senate articles of impeachment against Trump 'soon'
More: Trump says environmental policy change would fix 'regulatory nightmare'
Trump carried Ohio in the 2016 election with nearly 52% of the vote. By rallying in Toledo he can also draw from supporters in nearby Michigan, which he won narrowly.
Contributing: Susan Page, Nicholas Wu, Christal Hayes


usatoday--2020-01-09--Sanders: 'Can't think of anything dumber than allowing Congress' to control foreign policy

WASHINGTON – Former White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders stated during a Fox News interview Thursday that she `` ca n't think of anything dumber than allowing Congress to take over our foreign policy . ''
Sanders , now a Fox News contributor , was asked about a House resolution which would limit President Donald Trump 's ability to wage war with Iran , with a Fox and Friend co-host saying , `` the president yesterday said the U.S. is ready to embrace peace '' and wondering why , then , `` the House putting up this resolution to try @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” More : House votes to limit Trump 's ability to wage war with Iran after Soleimani killing “ You know , I can ’ t think of anything dumber than allowing Congress to take over our foreign policy , ” Sanders vented .
“ They can ’ t seem to manage to get much of anything done .
I think the last thing we want to do is push powers into Congress ’ hands and take them away from the president . ''
The president 's decision to order an airstrike late @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military general , Qasem Soleimani , was retaliated with missile attacks on Iraqi bases housing American and coalition troops by Iran Tuesday .
Trump threatened Iran with additional sanctions and said his administration is considering its `` options '' in an address to the nation Wednesday .
He also appeared to offer the Iranians an olive branch , signaling the United States does not seek a war with Tehran .
Exclusive : Americans say Soleimani 's killing made US less safe , Trump 'reckless ' on Iran Rep. Justin Amash , I-Mich. , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t think of anything dumber than the Constitution '' in response to her comments .
Article 1 , Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution describes that Congress has the power “ to declare war , grant letters of marque and reprisal , and make rules concerning captures on land and water , to raise and support armies and ... to make rules for the government and regulation of the land and naval forces.
” Trump administration officials have cited Congress ' 2002 authorization for war in Iraq as providing justification for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2002 AUMF states that the President `` is authorized to use the Armed Forces of the United States as he determines to be necessary and appropriate in order to — ( 1 ) defend the national security of the United States against the continuing threat posed by Iraq ; and ( 2 ) enforce all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions regarding Iraq . ''
Rep. Rand Paul , R-Ky. , was indignant that the 2002 AUMF against Iraq and its former president , Saddam Hussein , would be applicable as justification for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ killing of an Iranian general as being something that Congress gave them permission to do in 2002 , ” Paul stated .
“ That is absurd .
That ’ s an insult.
” Assassination or legitimate act in the war on terror ?
Legal debate rages as Iran retaliates against US for Soleimani killing More : Sen. Lindsey Graham says Trump 's Iran speech is comparable to Ronald Reagan 's 'tear down this wall ' address Sanders maintained that “ Any Democrat that doesn ’ t understand that America is safer now that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world is rotting in hell is completely naive and completely misses what we need to have in a foreign policy .
And the last thing I want to do is take power away from Trump and put it into their own hands . ''
“ I don ’ t think anything can be worse for America than that , '' she stated .
The House 's resolution would limit Trump 's power regarding Iran and emphasizes that if the president desires to take the United States to war , he must get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Virginia has introduced a similar resolution in the Senate .
That has been largely supported by Democrats , and even some Republicans .
Under the War Powers Act of 1973 , whenever military forces are engaged in conflict outside U.S. borders without congressional authorization , the passage of a resolution such as the ones under consideration in the House and Senate can force their withdrawal .
Trump tweeted , `` Hope that all House Republicans will vote against Crazy Nancy Pelosi ’ s War Powers Resolution . ''

Sanders: 'Can’t think of anything dumber than allowing Congress' to control foreign policy
Show Caption Hide Caption Republicans to join Democrat War Powers Resolution Two Republican Senators said they will join Democrats in voting for a resolution to limit President Trump's military action regarding Iran. This came after a closed door briefing on the drone strike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. (Jan. 9) AP
WASHINGTON – Former White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders stated during a Fox News interview Thursday that she "can't think of anything dumber than allowing Congress to take over our foreign policy."
Sanders, now a Fox News contributor, was asked about a House resolution which would limit President Donald Trump's ability to wage war with Iran, with a Fox and Friend co-host saying, "the president yesterday said the U.S. is ready to embrace peace" and wondering why, then, "the House putting up this resolution to try to limit the president's powers?”
More: House votes to limit Trump's ability to wage war with Iran after Soleimani killing
“You know, I can’t think of anything dumber than allowing Congress to take over our foreign policy,” Sanders vented. “They can’t seem to manage to get much of anything done. I think the last thing we want to do is push powers into Congress’ hands and take them away from the president."
The president's decision to order an airstrike late last week that killed a top Iranian military general, Qasem Soleimani, was retaliated with missile attacks on Iraqi bases housing American and coalition troops by Iran Tuesday.
Trump threatened Iran with additional sanctions and said his administration is considering its "options" in an address to the nation Wednesday. He also appeared to offer the Iranians an olive branch, signaling the United States does not seek a war with Tehran.
Exclusive: Americans say Soleimani's killing made US less safe, Trump 'reckless' on Iran
Rep. Justin Amash, I-Mich., quipped on twitter that Sanders "can’t think of anything dumber than the Constitution" in response to her comments.
Sarah Sanders can’t think of anything dumber than the Constitution. https://t.co/XmODOrcq1a — Justin Amash (@justinamash) January 9, 2020
Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution describes that Congress has the power “to declare war, grant letters of marque and reprisal, and make rules concerning captures on land and water, to raise and support armies and... to make rules for the government and regulation of the land and naval forces.”
Trump administration officials have cited Congress' 2002 authorization for war in Iraq as providing justification for the strike on Soleimani.
Section 3 of 2002 AUMF states that the President "is authorized to use the Armed Forces of the United States as he determines to be necessary and appropriate in order to — (1) defend the national security of the United States against the continuing threat posed by Iraq; and (2) enforce all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions regarding Iraq."
Rep. Rand Paul, R-Ky., was indignant that the 2002 AUMF against Iraq and its former president, Saddam Hussein, would be applicable as justification for Soleimani.
“They have justified the killing of an Iranian general as being something that Congress gave them permission to do in 2002,” Paul stated. “That is absurd. That’s an insult.”
Assassination or legitimate act in the war on terror? Legal debate rages as Iran retaliates against US for Soleimani killing
More: Sen. Lindsey Graham says Trump's Iran speech is comparable to Ronald Reagan's 'tear down this wall' address
Sanders maintained that “Any Democrat that doesn’t understand that America is safer now that one of the most dangerous terrorists in the world is rotting in hell is completely naive and completely misses what we need to have in a foreign policy. And the last thing I want to do is take power away from Trump and put it into their own hands."
“I don’t think anything can be worse for America than that," she stated.
The House's resolution would limit Trump's power regarding Iran and emphasizes that if the president desires to take the United States to war, he must get authorization from Congress.
Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia has introduced a similar resolution in the Senate. That has been largely supported by Democrats, and even some Republicans.
Under the War Powers Act of 1973, whenever military forces are engaged in conflict outside U.S. borders without congressional authorization, the passage of a resolution such as the ones under consideration in the House and Senate can force their withdrawal.
Trump tweeted, "Hope that all House Republicans will vote against Crazy Nancy Pelosi’s War Powers Resolution."
Hope that all House Republicans will vote against Crazy Nancy Pelosi’s War Powers Resolution. Also, remember her “speed & rush” in getting the Impeachment Hoax voted on & done. Well, she never sent the Articles to the Senate. Just another Democrat fraud. Presidential Harassment! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2020
Contributing: Nicholas Wu, Christal Hayes, David Jackson, Courtney Subramanian, John Fritze, Tom Vanden Brook


usatoday--2020-01-09--Sen. Lindsey Graham says Trump's Iran speech is comparable to Ronald Reagan's 'tear down this wall'

WASHINGTON — South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham reacted to President Donald Trump 's national address on the tensions with Iran on Wednesday by saying it would be long remembered , and was comparable to President Ronald Reagan 's infamous 1987 Berlin Wall speech .
`` This speech will be talked about long after his second term , '' Graham said in an interview with Fox 's Sean Hannity .
`` This is on par with 'Tear down this wall , Mr .
Gorbachev . '
'' Graham , a staunch Trump ally , has defended the president 's decision to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ killed a top Iranian military general , Qasem Soleimani .
Iran retaliated with missile attacks on Iraqi bases housing American and coalition troops Tuesday .
Trump gave a televised address on Wednesday , sending a pointed warning to Iran and indicating a desire to deescalate tensions with the United States : `` The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it . ''
No Iraqis or Americans were killed , Trump said .
The speech also included instances of misleading statements and exaggerations .
Read USA TODAY 's fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ praised the speech as `` presidential , '' Trump 's opponents blamed him for escalating the situation with Iran by killing Soleimani .
Graham initially tweeted that the speech was a `` homerun . ''
Lawmakers divided : Republicans stand with Trump after Iran remarks while Democrats blame tensions on Soleimani killing '' Here 's the good news .
The president made a very bold decision today to allow things to calm down , '' Graham told Hannity .
`` This is resetting the relationship between the world and Iran , just not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 'There 's an evil empire in Iran that 's bent on destroying the world , killing the people in Israel and coming after us , and I will no longer tolerate it , ' so this is on par with Reagan 's 'tear down this wall ' speech . ''
The Reagan speech urging Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to open the barrier between East and West Germany remains influential , though historians do n't believe it directly impacted the eventual fall of the Berlin Wall .
`` General Secretary Gorbachev , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe , if you seek liberalization , come here to this gate .
Mr. Gorbachev , open this gate , '' Reagan said .
`` Mr. Gorbachev , tear down this wall ! ''
Graham said that if conflict does escalate with Iran , it will be of the country 's own choosing , because `` the president gave them an out . ''
`` If they choose to defy President Trump , if they choose to try to get a nuclear weapon , have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to try to kill Americans in the future , they 're basically writing their own death warrant .
Donald Trump will destroy their economy , '' Graham said .
Lawmakers on Capitol Hill were briefed behind closed doors on Wednesday about the classified intelligence that led to the killing of Soleimani .
A Republican who notably broke from his party criticized the briefing as `` insulting and demeaning . ''
GOP Sen. Mike Lee of Utah said that he was “ unsatisfied ” by the justifications.
“ I ’ d hoped and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal , factual and moral justification for the attack.
” Lee was joined at the press conference by Sen. Rand Paul , R-Ky. Congress is set to vote on a measure that would limit Trump 's ability to wage war on Iran without Congressional approval .
In response to previous accusations by Graham that Lee and Paul were `` empowering the enemy , '' by indicating support for the measure Paul had said that Graham was giving a `` low , gutter type of response . ''
`` He insults the Constitution , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stand for in this republic by making light of it and accusing people of lacking patriotism , '' Paul said to CNN .
Asked to respond to Lee and Paul , Graham said on Fox News that they are `` great Americans , '' but said that debating such a measure in Congress `` restricting the ability to deal with the religious Nazis in Iran , it will be seen by the Iranians as division at home . ''
`` I hope we wo n't do it , '' he said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WWII . ''

Sen. Lindsey Graham says Trump's Iran speech is comparable to Ronald Reagan's 'tear down this wall' address
Show Caption Hide Caption President Trump responds to Iran attack with 'new' sanctions President Donald Trump addressed the nation just hours after Iran rained more than a dozen rockets down on airbases in Iraq housing U.S. troops. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON — South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham reacted to President Donald Trump's national address on the tensions with Iran on Wednesday by saying it would be long remembered, and was comparable to President Ronald Reagan's infamous 1987 Berlin Wall speech.
"This speech will be talked about long after his second term," Graham said in an interview with Fox's Sean Hannity. "This is on par with 'Tear down this wall, Mr. Gorbachev.'"
Graham, a staunch Trump ally, has defended the president's decision to order an airstrike late last week that killed a top Iranian military general, Qasem Soleimani. Iran retaliated with missile attacks on Iraqi bases housing American and coalition troops Tuesday.
Trump gave a televised address on Wednesday, sending a pointed warning to Iran and indicating a desire to deescalate tensions with the United States: "The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it."
No Iraqis or Americans were killed, Trump said.
The speech also included instances of misleading statements and exaggerations. Read USA TODAY's fact check.
And while some Republican allies praised the speech as "presidential," Trump's opponents blamed him for escalating the situation with Iran by killing Soleimani. Graham initially tweeted that the speech was a "homerun."
Lawmakers divided: Republicans stand with Trump after Iran remarks while Democrats blame tensions on Soleimani killing
"Here's the good news. The president made a very bold decision today to allow things to calm down," Graham told Hannity.
"This is resetting the relationship between the world and Iran, just not the United States. The president said, 'There's an evil empire in Iran that's bent on destroying the world, killing the people in Israel and coming after us, and I will no longer tolerate it,' so this is on par with Reagan's 'tear down this wall' speech."
The Reagan speech urging Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to open the barrier between East and West Germany remains influential, though historians don't believe it directly impacted the eventual fall of the Berlin Wall.
"General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate," Reagan said. "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!"
Berlin Wall 30 years later: 'Tear down this wall' prompted peace In 1987, Ronald Reagan challenged Russian leader Mikhail Gorbachev to "tear down this wall" during a June 1987 speech near the Berlin Wall. USA TODAY
Graham said that if conflict does escalate with Iran, it will be of the country's own choosing, because "the president gave them an out."
"If they choose to defy President Trump, if they choose to try to get a nuclear weapon, have a nuclear breakout, if they choose to continue to try to kill Americans in the future, they're basically writing their own death warrant. Donald Trump will destroy their economy," Graham said.
... sen. lindsey graham: "this speech will be talked about long after [trump's] second term... this speech is on par with reagan's 'tear down this wall' speech." pic.twitter.com/mdLDGjNbCW — fake nick ramsey (@nick_ramsey) January 9, 2020
Lawmakers on Capitol Hill were briefed behind closed doors on Wednesday about the classified intelligence that led to the killing of Soleimani. A Republican who notably broke from his party criticized the briefing as "insulting and demeaning."
GOP Sen. Mike Lee of Utah said that he was “unsatisfied” by the justifications.“I’d hoped and expected to receive more information outlining the legal, factual and moral justification for the attack.”
Lee was joined at the press conference by Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky.
Congress is set to vote on a measure that would limit Trump's ability to wage war on Iran without Congressional approval. In response to previous accusations by Graham that Lee and Paul were "empowering the enemy," by indicating support for the measure Paul had said that Graham was giving a "low, gutter type of response."
"He insults the Constitution, our founding fathers and what we do stand for in this republic by making light of it and accusing people of lacking patriotism," Paul said to CNN.
Asked to respond to Lee and Paul, Graham said on Fox News that they are "great Americans," but said that debating such a measure in Congress "restricting the ability to deal with the religious Nazis in Iran, it will be seen by the Iranians as division at home."
"I hope we won't do it," he said. "I can't imagine doing this in WWII."
Contributing: Savannah Behrmann, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-01-09--Nancy Pelosi seeks to 'limit the president's military actions', Iran de-escalation

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi plans on forcing de-escalation between President Trump and Iran with War Powers Resolution .

Nancy Pelosi seeks to 'limit the president's military actions', Iran de-escalation
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi plans on forcing de-escalation between President Trump and Iran with War Powers Resolution.
USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-01-09--Pelosi says she'll send Senate articles of impeachment against Trump 'soon'

WASHINGTON – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Thursday she would send the articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump to the Senate `` soon . ''
The Republican-led Senate awaits the articles so it can begin a trial on whether to remove Trump from office .
Removal would require a two-thirds vote of the senators .
But Pelosi has delayed sending the articles , which accuse Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress , since the House approved them Dec. 18 .
She said she wants to know more about how the Senate would conduct its trial before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pelosi reiterated this condition Thursday .
“ No , I ’ m not holding them indefinitely , '' said Pelosi , D-Calif. `` I ’ ll send them over when I ’ m ready .
That will probably be soon . ''
The delay has tested the patience of some Senate Democrats , who began urging Pelosi to send the articles .
“ I think if we ’ re going to do it , we should do it , ” said Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California , the top Democrat on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see what they ’ re willing to do and the manner in which they ’ ll do it , '' Pelosi said .
“ They don ’ t want documents , the documentation .
They don ’ t want witnesses .
They may want a dismissal , which is proof that they can not – can not – clear the president of wrongdoing . ''
Part of the impasse has focused on whether the Senate would hear from witnesses who did n't testify in the House inquiry .
But Senate Majority Leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that no decision would be made on witnesses until after opening statements from House managers and White House defense lawyers , and the submission of written questions from senators .
McConnell quoted Feinstein 's concerns on the Senate floor Thursday and said Trump deserved a chance to clear his name .
`` If it 's serious and urgent , send them over , '' McConnell said , quoting Feinstein .
`` If it is n't , do n't . ''
Sen. Lindsey Graham , R-S.C. , introduced a resolution Thursday urging Pelosi to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delay a “ gross infringement on the constitutional authority of the Senate to try impeachment.
” '' What the Speaker has been doing is inconsistent with the Constitution and unfair to the president and the American people , '' Graham said .
While Republicans blasted the delay as a political game , Democrats said it allowed time for former national security adviser John Bolton , who declined an invitation to testify in the House , to announce Monday he would testify in the Senate trial if subpoenaed .
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ witnesses , including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney .
The House accused Trump of abusing the power of his office by asking Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate his political rival , former Vice President Joe Biden , withholding a White House meeting and $ 391 million in military aid .
The House also accused Trump of obstructing Congress by directing aides and agencies to defy subpoenas for documents and testimony , although some officials did testify .
Trump and congressional Republicans have argued he had the authority to set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corruption in Ukraine .
Trump has said he expects to be exonerated in the Senate trial .

Pelosi says she'll send Senate articles of impeachment against Trump 'soon'
Show Caption Hide Caption Presidential impeachment: Clinton, Johnson, Nixon test U.S. democracy Presidents have been impeached, but none have been removed from office due to impeachment. Confusing? Here's how. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Thursday she would send the articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump to the Senate "soon."
The Republican-led Senate awaits the articles so it can begin a trial on whether to remove Trump from office. Removal would require a two-thirds vote of the senators.
But Pelosi has delayed sending the articles, which accuse Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, since the House approved them Dec. 18. She said she wants to know more about how the Senate would conduct its trial before naming the lawmakers to serve as managers. Pelosi reiterated this condition Thursday.
“No, I’m not holding them indefinitely," said Pelosi, D-Calif. "I’ll send them over when I’m ready. That will probably be soon."
The delay has tested the patience of some Senate Democrats, who began urging Pelosi to send the articles.
“I think if we’re going to do it, we should do it,” said Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California, the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee.
“We want to see what they’re willing to do and the manner in which they’ll do it," Pelosi said. “They don’t want documents, the documentation. They don’t want witnesses. They may want a dismissal, which is proof that they cannot – cannot – clear the president of wrongdoing."
Part of the impasse has focused on whether the Senate would hear from witnesses who didn't testify in the House inquiry. But Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Tuesday that no decision would be made on witnesses until after opening statements from House managers and White House defense lawyers, and the submission of written questions from senators.
McConnell quoted Feinstein's concerns on the Senate floor Thursday and said Trump deserved a chance to clear his name.
"If it's serious and urgent, send them over," McConnell said, quoting Feinstein. "If it isn't, don't."
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., introduced a resolution Thursday urging Pelosi to transmit the articles immediately and calling the delay a “gross infringement on the constitutional authority of the Senate to try impeachment.”
"What the Speaker has been doing is inconsistent with the Constitution and unfair to the president and the American people," Graham said.
While Republicans blasted the delay as a political game, Democrats said it allowed time for former national security adviser John Bolton, who declined an invitation to testify in the House, to announce Monday he would testify in the Senate trial if subpoenaed.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has called for four witnesses, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney.
The House accused Trump of abusing the power of his office by asking Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate his political rival, former Vice President Joe Biden, withholding a White House meeting and $391 million in military aid. The House also accused Trump of obstructing Congress by directing aides and agencies to defy subpoenas for documents and testimony, although some officials did testify.
Trump and congressional Republicans have argued he had the authority to set foreign policy and was justified in fighting corruption in Ukraine. Trump has said he expects to be exonerated in the Senate trial.
Contributing: Christal Hayes


usatoday--2020-01-09--New Hampshire Poll: Four-way race among Buttigeig, Biden, Sanders and Warren

WASHINGTON – With the New Hampshire primary nearly a month away , there is no clear frontrunner in the Granite State , according to a poll released Thursday .
Pete Buttigieg , the former mayor of South Bend , Indiana , leads the Democratic field with 20 % support among registered New Hampshire Democrats and unaffiliated voters who are likely to participate in the February 2020 Democratic primary , according to a Monmouth Poll published Thursday .
He is followed closely by former Vice President Joe Biden with 19 % .
Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont earned 18 % support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had 15 % .
The New Hampshire primary takes place on Feb. 11 and likely will be influenced by the Iowa caucuses , which take place eight days before .
An interactive guide : Who is running for president in 2020 ?
An interactive guide 2020 candidates on the issues : Here 's where they stand on gun control , climate change , immigration and more Buttigieg and Sanders saw the most growth since the last New Hampshire poll from Monmouth University in September .
Buttigieg saw a 10 percentage point increase , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while Sanders saw a 6 percentage point increase from 12 % .
Biden and Warren saw their support drop from the September poll .
Warren fell 12 percentage points from 27 % and Biden dropped 6 points from 25 % .
The next highest candidate in this month 's poll is Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota at 6 % .
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii and political activist Tom Steyer are both at 4 % .
Entrepreneur Andrew Yang followed at 3 % .
Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet was at 2 % , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was at 1 % .
Three candidates earned less than 1 % : former Massachusetts Gov .
Deval Patrick , former Maryland Rep. John Delaney and author Marianne Williamson .
Patrick Murray , director of the independent Monmouth University Polling Institute , said in a statement that “ the race remains fairly wide-open . ''
USA TODAY Poll : Americans say Soleimani 's killing made US less safe , Trump 'reckless ' on Iran '' To the extent that New Hampshire voters could take some cues from Iowa , it ’ s also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ candidates like Klobuchar if any of the leading contenders stumble in the earlier Iowa contest , ” Murray said .
The poll was published a day before the deadline to make it to Tuesday 's debate in Iowa , which several candidates are still trying to qualify for .
Booker , Gabbard , Steyer and Yang still all need multiple polls to qualify .
Candidates needed to get 5 % in at least four national or early-voting state polls , or at least 7 % in two early-voting state polls , which includes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ South Carolina .
The poll was conducted by telephone from Jan. 3 to 7 , with 697 registered voters contacted .
Of those contacted , 404 were New Hampshire voters who are likely to vote in the Democratic presidential primary in February 2020 .
There is a margin of error of plus or minus 4.9 percentage points .

New Hampshire Poll: Four-way race among Buttigeig, Biden, Sanders and Warren
Show Caption Hide Caption Difference between caucus and primary, explained The 2020 election is nearing and with that, comes the caucuses and primary elections. But what’s the difference? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – With the New Hampshire primary nearly a month away, there is no clear frontrunner in the Granite State, according to a poll released Thursday.
Pete Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, leads the Democratic field with 20% support among registered New Hampshire Democrats and unaffiliated voters who are likely to participate in the February 2020 Democratic primary, according to a Monmouth Poll published Thursday. He is followed closely by former Vice President Joe Biden with 19%. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont earned 18% support, while Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts had 15%.
The New Hampshire primary takes place on Feb. 11 and likely will be influenced by the Iowa caucuses, which take place eight days before.
An interactive guide: Who is running for president in 2020? An interactive guide
2020 candidates on the issues: Here's where they stand on gun control, climate change, immigration and more
Buttigieg and Sanders saw the most growth since the last New Hampshire poll from Monmouth University in September. Buttigieg saw a 10 percentage point increase, from 10% support in September, while Sanders saw a 6 percentage point increase from 12%.
Biden and Warren saw their support drop from the September poll. Warren fell 12 percentage points from 27% and Biden dropped 6 points from 25%.
The next highest candidate in this month's poll is Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota at 6%. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii and political activist Tom Steyer are both at 4%. Entrepreneur Andrew Yang followed at 3%. Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet was at 2%, while Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey was at 1%. Three candidates earned less than 1%: former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, former Maryland Rep. John Delaney and author Marianne Williamson.
Patrick Murray, director of the independent Monmouth University Polling Institute, said in a statement that “the race remains fairly wide-open."
USA TODAY Poll: Americans say Soleimani's killing made US less safe, Trump 'reckless' on Iran
"To the extent that New Hampshire voters could take some cues from Iowa, it’s also worth keeping an eye on lower polling candidates like Klobuchar if any of the leading contenders stumble in the earlier Iowa contest,” Murray said.
The poll was published a day before the deadline to make it to Tuesday's debate in Iowa, which several candidates are still trying to qualify for. Booker, Gabbard, Steyer and Yang still all need multiple polls to qualify.
Candidates needed to get 5% in at least four national or early-voting state polls, or at least 7% in two early-voting state polls, which includes Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina.
The poll was conducted by telephone from Jan. 3 to 7, with 697 registered voters contacted. Of those contacted, 404 were New Hampshire voters who are likely to vote in the Democratic presidential primary in February 2020. There is a margin of error of plus or minus 4.9 percentage points.


usatoday--2020-01-09--5 highlights from Donald Trump's televised address on the Iranian missile attacks

WASHINGTON – The president addressed the nation Wednesday from the White House after more than a dozen Iranian missiles struck Iraqi military bases housing U.S. and coalition troops late Tuesday night .
President Donald Trump said no Iraqis or Americans were hurt in the attacks , and he signaled the United States is open to negotiations and a de-escalation of tensions with Iran .
The attacks were Iran 's response to the U.S.-ordered airstrike that killed its top military leader , Qasem Soleimani , late last week .
The Defense Department said the strike was a preventive action to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personnel in the region .
US will impose new sanctions on Iran Trump said Iran would not be permitted to have a nuclear weapon .
`` As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression , the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime , '' Trump said .
`` These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior . ''
He accused Iran of a `` terror spree '' in other Middle East countries , and said , `` Iran has seized ships @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strike on Saudi Arabia and shot down two U.S .
drones . ''
Iran has demanded a lifting of U.S. sanctions .
Read Trump 's full speech : 'Iran will never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon' 'Ready to embrace peace with all who seek it' The president signaled he was open to negotiations with Iran .
He made a similar offer after he pulled out of the multinational nuclear agreement in 2018 .
Iran responded that it had already negotiated a deal that the United States abandoned .
`` Iran appears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world , '' Trump said Wednesday .
He said Iran must change its behavior and expressed hope that U.S. economic and military deterrents would motivate Iran to cooperate .
He touted the weight of the U.S. military : `` Our missiles are big , powerful , accurate , lethal and fast .
Under construction are many hypersonic missiles .
`` The fact that we have this great military and equipment , however , does not mean we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We do not want to use it .
American strength , both military and economic , is the best deterrent . ''
Speaking to Iran 's leaders , Trump said , `` We want you to have a future and a great future – one that you deserve , one of prosperity at home and harmony with the nations of the world .
The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it . ''
Nations urged to pull out of nuclear agreement Trump called on the United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China to break off from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal to negotiate a new one .
`` The civilized world must send a clear and unified message to the Iranian regime : Your campaign of terror , murder , mayhem will not be tolerated any longer .
It will not be allowed to go forward . ''
He repeatedly criticized the deal during his presidential race .
He announced in 2018 that the United States was pulling out of the agreement , and he implemented what he calls a `` maximum pressure '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We must also make a deal that allows Iran to thrive and prosper and take advantage of its enormous untapped potential .
Iran can be a great country , '' Trump said .
Trump linked U.S.-Iranian tensions , as well as Iran-backed aggression , to the nuclear deal negotiated during President Barack Obama 's term .
`` Iran ’ s hostilities substantially increased after the foolish Iran nuclear deal was signed in 2013 , and they were given $ 150 billion , not to mention $ 1.8 billion in cash .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States , they chanted , 'Death to America , ' `` Trump said .
Trump has suggested that the Obama administration gave Iran billions in monetary aid , but the $ 150 billion Iran received was not a gift .
After the nuclear agreement was signed , Iran was allowed to access its own frozen assets , which included the $ 150 billion , and additionally was paid back for a long-standing claim against the United States , which accounted for the $ 1.8 billion .
Major provocations occurred after Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the downing of a U.S. drone .
FACT CHECK : Trump discusses escalation of tensions with Iran in televised speech Trump suggested that the missile attacks launched by Iran on Tuesday were funded by the same money .
`` The missiles fired last night at us and our allies were paid for with the funds made available by the last administration , '' he said .
Obama 's national security adviser Susan Rice pushed back on Trump 's claim in an interview with MSNBC : `` The fact is , that 's another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iran has had these sophisticated missiles , they 've been developing their capacity for many , many years , '' she said .
`` To say that that money funded the attack on our personnel and on our base is just the most disgraceful kind of lie.
” US will ask NATO for more involvement in Middle East Trump has complained about what he sees as a disproportionate contribution from the United States in paying for military defense for allies in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization .
Wednesday , he said he would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Today , I am going to ask NATO to become much more involved in the Middle East process , '' Trump said .
`` Over the last three years , under my leadership , our economy is stronger than ever before , and America has achieved energy independence .
These historic accomplishments changed our strategic priorities . ''
Lawmakers divided : Republicans stand with Trump after Iran remarks while Democrats blame tensions on Soleimani killing

5 highlights from Donald Trump's televised address on the Iranian missile attacks
Show Caption Hide Caption Are we really ready for a World War III? Fears are mounting around the world following the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani - but is World War 3 about to happen? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – The president addressed the nation Wednesday from the White House after more than a dozen Iranian missiles struck Iraqi military bases housing U.S. and coalition troops late Tuesday night.
President Donald Trump said no Iraqis or Americans were hurt in the attacks, and he signaled the United States is open to negotiations and a de-escalation of tensions with Iran.
The attacks were Iran's response to the U.S.-ordered airstrike that killed its top military leader, Qasem Soleimani, late last week. The Defense Department said the strike was a preventive action to stop "imminent" plans to attack U.S. personnel in the region.
US will impose new sanctions on Iran
Trump said Iran would not be permitted to have a nuclear weapon.
"As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression, the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime," Trump said. "These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior."
He accused Iran of a "terror spree" in other Middle East countries, and said, "Iran has seized ships in international waters, fired an unprovoked strike on Saudi Arabia and shot down two U.S. drones."
Iran has demanded a lifting of U.S. sanctions.
Read Trump's full speech: 'Iran will never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon'
'Ready to embrace peace with all who seek it '
The president signaled he was open to negotiations with Iran. He made a similar offer after he pulled out of the multinational nuclear agreement in 2018. Iran responded that it had already negotiated a deal that the United States abandoned.
"Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world," Trump said Wednesday.
He said Iran must change its behavior and expressed hope that U.S. economic and military deterrents would motivate Iran to cooperate. He touted the weight of the U.S. military: "Our missiles are big, powerful, accurate, lethal and fast. Under construction are many hypersonic missiles.
"The fact that we have this great military and equipment, however, does not mean we have to use it," he continued. "We do not want to use it. American strength, both military and economic, is the best deterrent."
Speaking to Iran's leaders, Trump said, "We want you to have a future and a great future – one that you deserve, one of prosperity at home and harmony with the nations of the world. The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it."
Nations urged to pull out of nuclear agreement
Trump called on the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Russia and China to break off from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal to negotiate a new one.
"The civilized world must send a clear and unified message to the Iranian regime: Your campaign of terror, murder, mayhem will not be tolerated any longer. It will not be allowed to go forward."
He repeatedly criticized the deal during his presidential race. He announced in 2018 that the United States was pulling out of the agreement, and he implemented what he calls a "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran to curb its aggression.
"We must also make a deal that allows Iran to thrive and prosper and take advantage of its enormous untapped potential. Iran can be a great country," Trump said.
Trump blames missile attack funding on Obama administration
Trump linked U.S.-Iranian tensions, as well as Iran-backed aggression, to the nuclear deal negotiated during President Barack Obama's term.
"Iran’s hostilities substantially increased after the foolish Iran nuclear deal was signed in 2013, and they were given $150 billion, not to mention $1.8 billion in cash. Instead of saying 'thank you' to the United States, they chanted, 'Death to America,' " Trump said.
Trump has suggested that the Obama administration gave Iran billions in monetary aid, but the $150 billion Iran received was not a gift. After the nuclear agreement was signed, Iran was allowed to access its own frozen assets, which included the $150 billion, and additionally was paid back for a long-standing claim against the United States, which accounted for the $1.8 billion.
Major provocations occurred after Trump withdrew from the nuclear agreement, including the downing of a U.S. drone.
FACT CHECK: Trump discusses escalation of tensions with Iran in televised speech
Trump suggested that the missile attacks launched by Iran on Tuesday were funded by the same money.
"The missiles fired last night at us and our allies were paid for with the funds made available by the last administration," he said.
Obama's national security adviser Susan Rice pushed back on Trump's claim in an interview with MSNBC: "The fact is, that's another lie," she said.
“Iran has had these sophisticated missiles, they've been developing their capacity for many, many years," she said. "To say that that money funded the attack on our personnel and on our base is just the most disgraceful kind of lie.”
US will ask NATO for more involvement in Middle East
Trump has complained about what he sees as a disproportionate contribution from the United States in paying for military defense for allies in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Wednesday, he said he would request more contribution from NATO.
"Today, I am going to ask NATO to become much more involved in the Middle East process," Trump said. "Over the last three years, under my leadership, our economy is stronger than ever before, and America has achieved energy independence. These historic accomplishments changed our strategic priorities."
Lawmakers divided: Republicans stand with Trump after Iran remarks while Democrats blame tensions on Soleimani killing
Contributing: Courtney Subramanian, John Fritze, Michael Collins, Tom Vanden Brook