Obama secures crucial Senate vote on Iran Nuclear deal

Kayode Ogundele
Kayode Ogundele
Senator Barbara Mikulski of Maryland

Senator Barbara Mikulski of Maryland on Wednesday came out in support of President Obama’s Iran nuclear accord, making her the 34th Democrat in favour.

Her announcement gives Obama the votes to assure the deal will survive a Congressional challenge.

“Some have suggested we reject this deal and impose unilateral sanctions to force Iran back to the table. But maintaining or stepping up sanctions will only work if the sanction coalition holds together,” wrote Ms. Mikulski, the longest serving female senator in history.

“It’s unclear if the European Union, Russia, China, India and others would continue sanctions if Congress rejects this deal. At best, sanctions would be porous, or limited to unilateral sanctions by the U.S.”

Ms. Mikulski’s decision came a day after Senators Chris Coons of Delaware and Bob Casey of Pennsylvania also announced they would support the deal.

The White House and Senate Democrats next week hope to filibuster a Republican resolution that would attempt to stop the Iran accord.

If seven more senators come out in support, the resolution would never leave the Senate, and Mr. Obama would not be forced to use a veto.

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