Once again, I find myself writing my senators and congressman. This is addressed to Katie Britt, and I will send a similar one to Tommy Tuberville and Gary Palmer.
I am making this a public letter and will put it on my blog and social media.
—
Dear Senator Britt,
I am writing to you as a constituent from Alabama in response to your recent statement regarding Iran, in which you said: “Iran is led by a murderous regime that not only murders innocent Americans, but is also holding innocent Americans in captivity.”
While I understand the seriousness of those accusations and the gravity of the Iranian regime’s behavior, I want to express my deep concern and disagreement with the current war. I believe this conflict is reckless and unnecessary, and I am troubled by the manner in which it has unfolded.
President Trump ran on a platform of “America First,” promising peace, strength, and an end to foreign wars. Many Americans supported him on that basis. Yet this military engagement appears to have been initiated without a clear and transparent explanation to the American people, without meaningful involvement from Congress, and while diplomatic negotiations were reportedly still underway and showing at least some positive movement regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
The Constitution vests in Congress the authority to declare war. When military action of this magnitude proceeds without robust congressional deliberation and authorization, it undermines both our constitutional framework and the trust of the American people. If we are to send our service members into harm’s way, the case must be clearly made, publicly debated, and lawfully authorized.
I urge you, as my Senator, to exercise your constitutional responsibility to demand accountability, insist on full transparency, and work with your colleagues to bring this conflict to a swift and responsible end. America can be strong without being perpetually at war. Strength includes wisdom, restraint, and a serious commitment to diplomacy wherever possible.
Please use your voice and your vote to press for de-escalation and to restore Congress’s rightful role in decisions of war and peace.
Thank you for your service to our state and for your attention to this urgent matter.
Sincerely,
Rev. Dr. Steve West
Irondale, Alabama 35210
