Survey reveals divided views in US Congress on president's sole authority over nuclear strikes

A recent survey conducted by Times Opinion reveals mixed responses among US lawmakers about the president's unilateral power to launch a nuclear strike.

This authority, established after World War II, currently allows the president to order a pre-emptive nuclear strike without congressional approval. The survey, sent to all 530 voting members of the incoming 119th Congress, sheds light on growing concerns about this unchecked power, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

While no Republicans supported the idea of a president launching a pre-emptive strike without congressional approval, Representative Jefferson Van Drew of New Jersey defended former President Trump’s unilateral control, expressing comfort with it. On the other hand, no Republican senator explicitly backed the president's sole authority. Democratic senators, including Kirsten Gillibrand, were the only ones to suggest that any president could hold this power, though they, along with Representatives Seth Moulton and Janelle Bynum, expressed deep discomfort with Trump having it.

The survey underscores the urgency many lawmakers feel to reassess US nuclear policy. Concerns about potential nuclear escalation were raised by Democrats like Representative Mark Takano, who pointed to the lack of active arms control discussions. Representative Dina Titus also emphasized the need for reassessing sole authority, citing historical "close calls" in nuclear history.

Despite limited responses, particularly from Republicans, the survey highlights a critical discussion on nuclear diplomacy and the need for safeguards. With the evolving nuclear landscape, many lawmakers, especially Democrats, advocate for stronger checks and clearer communication channels to avoid catastrophic outcomes. The debate over nuclear policy remains a crucial national security issue in the coming Congress.

By Vafa Guliyeva