WATERBURY, Conn. – Today, United States Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement after the United States of America launched a military strike last night, killing Qassem Suleimani, a key leader of Iranian intelligence forces.
“It cannot be overstated that Qassem Suleimani’s efforts to sow discord and disrupt the tenuous political balance in the Middle East have ended today.”
“I do retain significant concerns with the way this action was planned and executed, notably the refusal to engage with Congress, as our Founders - and the law - intended. Prior to giving the order to launch this military action, the president chose not to brief members of congressional leadership, as presidents of both parties have done in the past. This decision continues the Administration’s failure to recognize Congress’ Article I constitutional powers and threatens the necessary checks and balances of our government.”
“President Trump’s action significantly escalates tensions with Iran and risks upsetting a delicate balance in the Middle East.”
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Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year. Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.