In the aftermath of the recent U.S.-Israeli air strikes on Iran, Pennsylvania’s congressional representatives have displayed a range of responses, largely split along party lines. However, Sen. John Fetterman stands out for his support of the military operation.
The Democrat lauded the initiative, known as “Operation Epic Fury,” in a post on X, diverging from the stance of many in his party.
Matt Rourke/Steven Senne
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Associated Press
Among Republicans, Bucks County Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick condemned Iran’s actions, emphasizing the importance of congressional oversight in military engagements.
Pa.’s senators agree with strikes
Sen. Fetterman expressed support, stating, “President Trump has been willing to do what’s right and necessary to produce real peace in the region. God bless the United States, our great military, and Israel.” His position aligns more with Republican Sen. Dave McCormick, who also voiced strong criticism of Iran’s past actions.
McCormick highlighted the historical threats posed by Iran: “For decades, the Iranian regime has killed Americans, threatened Israel and our allies in the region with their ballistic missiles and nuclear ambitions, and butchered tens of thousands of its own people. They are the world’s number one sponsor of terror,” he noted on X. He emphasized that diplomatic avenues had been offered to Iran, but were rejected.
NEPA House members weigh in
● Rep. Rob Bresnahan, R-8, Luzerne: Bresnahan criticized Iran for funding terrorist activities and called for a focus on national security, urging Congress to prioritize homeland safety over political disputes. His statement was posted on X.
● Rep. Dan Meuser, R-9, Luzerne: Meuser spoke of a crucial juncture, emphasizing the United States’ and Israel’s firm stance through decisive actions. His remarks were shared on X.
Elsewhere in eastern, central Pa.
Other responses from representatives in eastern and central Pennsylvania reveal a mix of support and criticism:
● Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-1, Bucks: In a statement, Fitzpatrick labeled Iran as a leading sponsor of terrorism and called for constitutional adherence in military decisions, advocating for clear objectives and oversight.
● Rep. Dwight Evans, D-3, Philadelphia: Evans criticized the strikes as “illegal” and “ill-conceived,” warning that such actions increase risks to American lives and draw the nation toward prolonged conflict. His comments were posted on X.
● Rep. Madeleine Dean, D-4, Montgomery: Dean criticized the operation as “erratic” and expressed the public’s opposition to war, emphasizing the desire to avoid escalating tensions. Her remarks were shared on X.
● Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-5, Delaware: Scanlon questioned the safety and stability resulting from Trump’s unauthorized actions in Iran, expressing skepticism about their benefits. Her statement was made on X.
● U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-6, Chester: Houlahan acknowledged Iran’s negative global role but criticized the lack of congressional authorization and evidence of necessity for the strikes, as shared on X.
● Rep. Scott Perry, R-10, York: Perry, via a video on X, urged Iranians to seize the moment for freedom and reclaim their government, alluding to Persia’s historical significance.
● Rep. Lloyd Smucker, R-11, Lancaster: Smucker praised the decisive steps taken to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, underscoring the necessity of such measures due to Iran’s repeated diplomatic refusals. His comments were published on X.
