Ro Khanna Presses Democrats to Defund the Iran War and Pressure Hakeem Jeffries
Riding a wave of election wins, progressive Democrats are pushing leadership to act fast on the war in Iran and Israel policy, a fight that could shape who leads the party and divide the caucus.
- Congressman Ro Khanna says Tuesday's election wins were a rejection of Trump's Iran war, his support for Israel, and Epstein-related corruption, not just a normal political swing.
- He wants Democrats to use the upcoming government funding bill to cut off money for combat in Iran, saying this could lower gas, diesel, and food prices before the end of the year.
- Khanna says he'll only back Hakeem Jeffries for Speaker if he commits to ending the Iran war, cutting aid to Israel, and holding a vote on Medicare for All.
- He ruled himself out for Speaker but confirmed he's seriously considering a 2028 presidential run built around ending support for Israel's actions, taxing billionaires, and Medicare for All.
- He warned that voters gave Democrats a "chance," not a mandate, and that the party risks losing that goodwill fast if it doesn't deliver lower costs.
Outlook: Expect a tense fight within the Democratic caucus over the Speaker vote and the funding bill in the coming weeks, with progressives demanding concrete commitments before backing leadership.