KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) U.S. Rep. Maggie Goodlander said Tuesday that Congress must immediately reassert its constitutional authority over war powers following weekend U.S. military strikes against Iran, calling the president’s decision to act without congressional authorization “deeply concerning.”

Goodlander, who represents New Hampshire’s 2nd District, spoke by phone on Good Morning with Dan Mitchell on WKBK Radio, where she sharply questioned both the legality and strategic rationale behind the strikes, which were reportedly coordinated with Israel.

The congresswoman said she learned about the military action through news reports rather than through formal congressional notification, arguing that lawmakers have a constitutional obligation under Article I to declare war.

“If the president has legitimate military objectives, he must present a clear case to Congress and to the American people,” Goodlander said, calling for a bipartisan War Powers Resolution in the House to force debate and accountability.

No Clear Objectives

Goodlander said the administration has not articulated a clear explanation of the imminent threat posed by Iran, why diplomatic options were abandoned, what success would look like, or how the conflict would end.

Drawing on her background in Navy intelligence and her current role on the House Armed Services Committee, she said sending U.S. service members into harm’s way requires defined objectives and measurable goals.

“Hope is not a strategy,” she said, referencing lessons learned from prolonged conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

She also said there has been no clarity about whether U.S. ground troops could ultimately be deployed.

Rising Casualties and Escalation Risks

Goodlander noted that six American service members have already been killed in the early stages of the conflict and warned the situation could spiral into a broader regional war.

She described the trajectory as potentially “extremely costly, dangerous, and messy,” particularly if the mission shifts toward regime change.

While condemning Iran’s leadership as brutal and responsible for American deaths, Goodlander cautioned against assuming political transformation could occur quickly or without significant instability. She pointed to the entrenched power of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and said regime change efforts historically require detailed planning, clear objectives, and congressional backing.

“Suggesting political transformation without a detailed plan is irresponsible,” she said.

War Powers Resolution and Oversight

Goodlander said Congress was scheduled to receive a classified briefing later Tuesday and emphasized that lawmakers must use “every tool” available to uphold their constitutional responsibilities.

She argued that presidential authority is strengthened — not weakened — when Congress formally authorizes military action.

“This isn’t just about legality,” she said. “It’s about strategic wisdom.”

Economic Fallout Already Emerging

A significant portion of the discussion focused on economic impacts.

Goodlander said oil and natural gas prices have already risen sharply, and reports indicate the Strait of Hormuz — a critical global shipping route — has been closed.

She warned that a prolonged conflict could worsen inflation and further increase energy costs, including in New Hampshire, where residents already face high heating and electricity expenses.

The congresswoman criticized the administration for downplaying those concerns, especially after campaigning on affordability.

“You cannot ignore the economic consequences of war,” she said.

Broader Global Risks

Goodlander also highlighted reports of U.S. embassies closing across the region and warned of the possibility that additional allies or adversaries could become involved.

She repeatedly characterized the situation as a potential prolonged regional conflict with global economic ripple effects.

Throughout the interview, Goodlander returned to three central themes: Congress must authorize war, military objectives must be clearly defined, and the American people deserve transparency.

While making clear she does not defend the Iranian regime, she framed her position around constitutional checks and balances and the responsibility to both service members and taxpayers.

“This is about accountability,” she said, “and Congress must do its job.”

Listen to the full interview: