Politics
Thomas Massie Stands Alone: Only GOP Rep to Vote Against Sanctions on Iran
Clear Facts
- The House passed a resolution condemning Hamas and urging strong US sanctions on Iran with a 412-10 vote.
- Nine Democrats, including four “Squad” members, opposed the bill.
- GOP Rep. Thomas Massie was the sole Republican to vote against it, citing concerns over sanctions on a sovereign nation.
A largely bipartisan decision arose in the House on Wednesday as they passed a resolution not only condemning Hamas, a known Palestinian terrorist group, but also urging rigorous enforcement of U.S. sanctions on Iran. The outcome? A resounding 412 members in favor, a mere 10 opposed, and 6 sitting on the fence.
While the lion’s share of those opposed hailed from the Democratic side, including “Squad” members such as Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, and Cori Bush, one name from the GOP did stand out – Rep. Thomas Massie.
Taking to social media, Massie voiced his reasons, stating the bill “calls for sanctions on a sovereign country,” and further highlighted that it “asserts the necessity of foreign aid commitments which [he has] voted against.”
I condemn the barbaric attack on Israel and I affirm Israel’s right to defend itself.
However, I will not be voting for House Resolution 771 today because:
1) It calls for sanctions on a sovereign country. Sanctions are a prelude to war and hurt the citizens of the country more…— Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) October 25, 2023
House Resolution 771, the bill in the spotlight, emphasized the imperative of maintaining sanctions on Iran, particularly in light of their support for terrorist outfits such as Hamas.
Recent weeks have been rife with tension, as Hamas has unleashed a series of attacks on Israel. This act of aggression has elicited various responses from the “Squad” members, most of whom have expressed anti-Israel sentiments, throwing their weight behind Hamas.
When probed about the heinous acts of terror orchestrated by Hamas, these members sidestepped the question, redirecting the focus on calling for a ceasefire.
Biden’s press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, didn’t mince words when criticizing several Squad members for their blatant anti-Israel stance on social platforms.
She stated emphatically, “We believe they’re wrong, we believe they’re repugnant, and we believe they’re disgraceful.”
She further elaborated on the US’s position, attributing the blame “squarely with terrorists who have brutally murdered, raped, kidnapped hundreds, hundreds of Israelis.”
Without a hint of ambiguity, she declared, “There are not two sides here. There are not two sides.”
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, in the aftermath, sought to censure Tlaib for her palpable sympathy towards Hamas.
As the resolution against Hamas took center stage, new House speaker Mike Johnson proclaimed, “Our nation’s greatest ally in the Middle East is under attack,” reinforcing America’s commitment to standing firmly with Israel.
Clear Thoughts
Congressman Massie’s lone vote against US sanctions on Iran has brought attention to his independent mindset. Massie’s decision to join Democrats, such as Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Rashida Tlaib, and Ilhan Omar, in voting against the bill demonstrates his willingness to break ranks with his party.
The bipartisan legislation, aimed at imposing sanctions on Iran in response to its nuclear program, enjoyed widespread support from both Republicans and Democrats. However, Massie’s dissenting vote showcases his commitment to thoughtful decision-making based on his own analysis.
In a time when partisan politics often dominate the conversation, Massie’s actions remind us of the importance of independent thinking. While his vote may face criticism from fellow Republicans, it serves as a reminder that elected officials should prioritize their constituents’ interests over party lines.
Political diversity is essential for a healthy democracy, as it allows for comprehensive discussions and more robust decision-making. Regardless of the outcome, Massie’s ability to follow his convictions sets an example for others in Congress – an example that encourages critical thinking and independent decision-making.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
CPH
October 27, 2023 at 8:14 am
I am embarrassed AND ANGRY THAT SOMEONE REPRESENTING KY woukd cast this vote which favors
Hammas, voting with the disgusting group :The Squad” I would encourage the voters in Northern KY to vote him OUT . He is certainly NOT representing the wishes of KY voters.
Robert reed
October 31, 2023 at 7:00 am
His constituents should call for a vote of no confidence and remove this rhino and Anyone who thinks the terrorists are not here have brain damage they want to kill his constituents also!!! Instead of just saying it’s HIS own belief he hiding behind his constituents just like the terrorists hide behind citizens
Bruce
October 31, 2023 at 7:59 am
The people of this district in KY have a simple solution to this issue. If they want to send their children off to another war in the Middle East and bankrupt their posterity then they can vote Mr. Massie out in the next election. If they prefer an individual who is thoughtful and not part of the military industrial complex they will return his reasoned voice to Congress next fall.
Greg
October 31, 2023 at 8:46 am
He highlights the biggest problem the Republican Party has – Not sticking together
Joanne Martin
November 16, 2023 at 7:13 am
You are so right Gregg! I have been espousing this for years! His reasoning is flawed, and he actually came out in favor of a country that despises us and wants us all dead. Our country is as weak today as it ever has been. Our president is weak, the VP is totally incompetent and the republicans still can’t stick together. I am 85 years old and finally considering changing to independent.
LMS
October 31, 2023 at 9:45 am
Hey Massie, like ALL RINOs you’re worthless in office! If you can’t do you job as REPUBLICAN then resign your seat and your votes and we’ll put someone in that will do the job! May Trump get back in office and find one way or the other to get rid of ALL of you RINOs from power. I have never seen such stupidity and incompetence since 2008! God help this country and Israel against global AND DOMESTIC ENEMIES!
jose jiminez
October 31, 2023 at 10:53 am
“However, Massie’s dissenting vote showcases his commitment to thoughtful decision-making based on his own analysis.
In a time when partisan politics often dominate the conversation, Massie’s actions remind us of the importance of independent thinking.”
IT IS NOT his job to independently think and then act on his PERSONAL feelings or beliefs. He is there to REPRESENT the folks that elected him. If his vote is indicative of the feelings of the majority of his constituents then his vote was correct. If he just voted that way because of his own “independent thinking” and it is contrary to the wishes of those that elected him, he should be fired for dereliction of duty, like any other RINO should be.