President Trump’s unilateral style is hitting resistance inside Congress. On Wednesday four House Republicans joined Democrats in demanding that the president pull U.S. troops from the Iran conflict or seek congressional approval, directly challenging his claim that authorisation is unnecessary. The move follows a Republican revolt against a $1.8 billion fund intended to reward Trump supporters facing alleged Democratic persecution.

Senators John Cornyn and Bill Cassidy, both vocal critics of the fund, urged Congress to legislate its demise, echoing a Wall Street Journal editorial. Meanwhile, Trump defended the money, telling reporters “I love it,” and cast doubt on its status. The dispute spilled into national‑security debates as GOP leaders balked at his appointment of Bill Pulte as acting director of intelligence.

Republican senators, including Thom Tillis, warned that Pulte’s controversial past – publishing mortgage data on Trump critics – jeopardises the warrantless‑surveillance bill and any chance of confirmation. White House spokesman Davis Ingle countered, praising Pulte’s talent and accusing Democrats of endangering security. With midterms five months away, these intra‑party fights signal a growing rift that could affect legislative agendas. Lawmakers fear further GOP fragmentation ahead of the election.