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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) — State leaders are reacting to President Donald Trump’s authorization of airstrikes against Iranian nuclear targets.
The move has drawn responses from both sides of the aisle; some support the movie while others are against it.
After Trump’s announcement on Saturday, South Carolina leaders shared their opinions.
“Iran must never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon, and President Trump’s decisive action ensures the safety of our nation and our allies like Israel,” Gov. Henry Mcmaster posted to X.
Many other Republicans, including U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R – South Carolina), are backing Trump’s decision, calling it a strong message to America’s enemies.
“It’s in our best interest to make sure that all of our adversaries fear us and that our allies respect us. The most effective way to deal with someone who said they want to eliminate you off the map is to aggressively make sure they do not have the power to do so,” Scott said.
But U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn is sounding the alarm, calling the attack unconstitutional and reckless.
“President Trump’s unilateral decision to attack Iran without congressional approval is unconstitutional and unwise,” Clyburn said on Facebook. “This move, a rash sequel to his withdrawal from the nuclear deal, puts our nation, our troops, and innocents at grave risk.”
Scott said he believes President Trump is protecting the American people with this decision.
“It’s clear that the President acted within his constitutional authority, number one, and number two, the President does not need congressional authority to protect American lives,” Scott continued. “He does not need it to protect America’s interests, and he frankly doesn’t need it when he believes, ultimately, that this will preserve American lifelong term.”
On Monday, President Trump declared the “12 day war” between Israel and Iran will likely end in a ceasefire.
“It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE,” Trump posted on social media, although there was no immediate word from either country on the announcement.
The ceasefire would start with Iran and then joined by Israel 12 hours later, with Trump saying the respective sides would “remain PEACEFUL and RESPECTFUL.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.