Fact Check: "Senator Bernie Sanders introduced legislation on October 23, 2023, that would bar the use of federal funds for military force against Iran without congressional authorization."
What We Know
The claim states that Senator Bernie Sanders introduced legislation on October 23, 2023, to restrict the use of federal funds for military action against Iran without congressional approval. However, the most recent legislation introduced by Sanders regarding military action against Iran was the "No War Against Iran Act," which he introduced on June 16, 2025. This act aims to prohibit the use of federal funds for military force against Iran without specific congressional authorization, except in cases of self-defense as defined by the War Powers Act (source-2).
Additionally, Sanders has been vocal about military spending and has opposed the current defense budget, which he argues is excessive and misallocated (source-1). However, there is no record of him introducing any new legislation specifically on October 23, 2023, regarding military action against Iran.
Analysis
The assertion that Sanders introduced legislation on October 23, 2023, is factually incorrect. The "No War Against Iran Act" was introduced on June 16, 2025, and not on the date specified in the claim. This discrepancy indicates a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the timeline of Sanders' legislative actions. The sources confirming the introduction of the "No War Against Iran Act" are credible, coming from Sanders' official press releases and reputable news outlets (source-2, source-8).
Furthermore, while Sanders has consistently advocated for limiting military action without congressional oversight, the claim's specific date and context are inaccurate. The legislation he introduced is part of a broader ongoing effort to address U.S. military engagement and funding, but it does not align with the date mentioned in the claim.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that Senator Bernie Sanders introduced legislation on October 23, 2023, to bar the use of federal funds for military force against Iran without congressional authorization is false. The actual introduction of related legislation occurred on June 16, 2025, and not on the date specified. This misrepresentation of the timeline undermines the accuracy of the claim.
Sources
- The Pentagon doesn't need $886bn. I oppose this bloated defense budget
- NEWS: Sanders Introduces No War Against Iran Act
- STATEMENT: Sanders, Khanna Announce New Legislation to Block Funding ...
- Iran: Background and U.S. Policy
- The U.S. Must Not Be Dragged into Netanyahu's War ...
- Legislation » Senator Bernie Sanders
- Sanders Says He Opposes $886 Billion in Military Spending Amid ...
- US senator introduces bill blocking US military action ...
