A historic agreement to limit Iran’s nuclear program took a major step forward Thursday, after Republicans in the U.S. Senate failed to end a Democratic-led filibuster blocking a resolution opposing the accord. The 58-42 procedural vote now makes it more likely the six-nation deal will be able to take effect automatically later this month, although Republicans are vowing to continue efforts to keep that from happening.
U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) stood by his party in opposing the deal. Speaking from the Senate floor on Thursday, Johnson questioned why the U.S. would back an agreement that stands to financially benefit Iran. “Why in the world would we ever enter a deal that will inject tens of billions, and eventually hundreds of billions of dollars to our enemy?”
The Wisconsin Republican said he’s worried the agreement will actually strengthen an enemy’s economy and military, making it more likely they will be able to obtain a nuclear weapon.
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) stood with Democrats, with all but four members voting against the disapproval resolution.