The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell Lawrence: Even Donald Trump seems to know that his war in Iran is now illegal
May 5, 2026
Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, civil rights scholar and author, reflects on the Supreme Court ruling and her memoir. Robert Garcia, U.S. Representative and oversight leader, outlines aggressive investigations and subpoena plans. Mark Hertling, retired lieutenant general, explains military operations, command intent, and the War Powers Act. They discuss Iran legality, White House readiness for oversight, and the Voting Rights Act ruling.
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War Powers Act Made Trump's Iran Action Illegal
- Lawrence O'Donnell explains the War Powers Act limits presidential military action to 60 days without Congress and calls Trump's Iran campaign illegal after day 60.
- He contrasts Vietnam-era Gulf of Tonkin's open-ended authorization with the 1973 law designed to prevent another prolonged undeclared war.
Confused Orders Undermine Military Operations
- Mark Hertling warns unclear presidential intent and day-to-day reversals hamper operational planning and confuse troops in theater.
- He notes commanders need precise orders or at least a clear commander's intent to shape tactics and avoid adjusting to a 'windsock.'
Define Clear Objectives Before Deploying Forces
- Mark Hertling advises defining clear objectives before sending troops into harm's way and giving precise, unambiguous orders.
- He emphasizes responsibility to end wars as soon as feasible and to prepare soldiers with a clear end state.
