Rep. Adam Smith on the War Congress Didn’t Approve

On this episode of American Power, host Nat Towsen is joined by military strategist Chad Scott, energy expert Matt Randolph (Mr. Global), and Congressman Adam Smith, ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, to break down the escalating conflict with Iran, the limits of presidential war powers, and what comes next.

Smith explains why the U.S. now finds itself “stuck in a bad place” with few clear options, and the reality behind modern war powers: presidents act first, and Congress struggles to keep up.

Chad Scott brings the military perspective, examining how blockades and ongoing strikes blur the line between deterrence and full-scale war. Matt Randolph breaks down the energy side, explaining why “energy independence” is largely a myth and how global oil markets are already shaping the conflict and its consequences at home.

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