Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said Democrats will prioritize ending the Iran war in the next Congress, arguing it raised costs and helped shape the party’s midterm gains.
The New York Democrat discussed the agenda Thursday on NPR’s Morning Edition. She also called for lowering costs and restoring health care access, placing domestic concerns alongside the effort to end the conflict.
Gillibrand argued that the war had driven up costs and accused President Donald Trump of abandoning his pledge to avoid prolonged conflicts. NPR separately reported that Trump said Wednesday that the conflict contributed to Republican midterm losses.
The Associated Press reported that Democrats won control of both chambers and are due to take over in January. NPR noted that Trump will remain president as the incoming majority tries to deliver on its agenda. EconoTimes previously examined the uncertain effect of the midterm result on Iran policy.
On health care, Gillibrand backed bipartisan legislation to restore Medicaid coverage and challenged Trump to veto it. “I dare him to veto that,” she told NPR.
NPR said the incoming majority will have expanded authority to investigate the administration amid pressure for accountability. Gillibrand did not commit to pursuing a third impeachment. She also proposed banning stock trades by members of Congress and senior administration officials, saying, “We can do both.”
NPR reported that Democrats have not explained how they intend to end the war. The party is due to take control of Congress in January, according to the Associated Press.
