White House spokesman Josh Earnest quickly condemned the Cotton letter, calling it “a partisan strategy to undermine the president’s ability to conduct foreign policy.” Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., undoubtedly speaking for others in her party, called the letter “bizarre” and “a desperate ploy to scuttle a comprehensive agreement and the chance for a peaceful resolution.”
Remember what preceded the Republicans’ action. A number of senators, led by Republican Sen. Bob Corker, have been working on legislation to require congressional approval for any Iran deal. “The legislation is a response to the administration’s intention not to seek approval or review from Congress for the agreement with Iran, despite a long history of Congress playing a role in international agreements, which has provided added legitimacy and longevity to many of these accords,” notes one GOP aide.
The White House response to Corker’s initiative was swift. “If this bill is sent to the president, he will veto it,” said a National Security Council spokeswoman.
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