White House seeks to sway Republicans ahead of war powers vote

The White House is lobbying Republican senators to oppose a war powers resolution that would limit President Donald Trump’s authority on military action in Venezuela.

The administration needs at least two Republicans to change their position before a final Senate vote expected on Wednesday.

The resolution would require congressional approval before further US military action is taken.

Senator Josh Hawley said he spoke directly with Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the issue.

We have no ground troops and we have no plans to put ground troops in.

Marco Rubio said, according to Josh Hawley.

Hawley said Rubio added that any troop deployment would fall under existing constitutional and statutory authority.

Hawley described the conversation as substantive and helpful but did not commit to opposing the resolution.

Let’s see what happens.

Josh Hawley said.

Hawley also said Trump warned him that the resolution would restrict the administration’s flexibility.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the White House is actively working to change Republican votes.

Thune said Trump has been personally calling senators to press his case.

He was fairly animated on that subject.

John Thune said.

Senator Lisa Murkowski confirmed she spoke with Trump but said she was not changing her vote.

It wasn’t much of a conversation.

Lisa Murkowski said.

Senator Todd Young declined to say whether he would reconsider his position.

Senators Rand Paul and Susan Collins also voted to advance the resolution, with Collins reportedly receiving a heated call from Trump.