Rep. Jared Golden backs Trump’s Iran strikes, urges focus on American safety as DOJ stays alert for Iranian threats.

Moderate Democrat Praises Trump’s Iran Strategy

In a rare break from party ranks, Rep. Jared Golden, a moderate Democrat from Maine, voiced support for President Donald Trump’s recent decision to carry out targeted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Golden described Iran’s regime as fundamentally hostile to the United States and its allies, citing their sponsorship of terrorist groups responsible for American deaths and ongoing chaos in the region.

“Based on what I know so far, I believe the president was right to launch limited strikes to deter that outcome,” Golden said, referring to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s assessment that Iran was nearing nuclear weapons capability. He called for a House-wide briefing to clarify what intelligence informed Trump’s decision and to assess whether the strikes successfully dismantled Iran’s nuclear program.

Congress and White House Monitor Ongoing Threats

Golden emphasized the need for continued vigilance as Iran responded to the strikes by launching missiles at American bases in Iraq and Qatar. “The top priority for the president and his administration, as well as for Congress, must be to use every tool at our disposal to defend Americans and deter further escalation by Tehran,” Golden urged. He looked forward to the scheduled House briefing to gain more insight into the administration’s actions and next steps.

Despite Golden’s support, most Democrats in Washington criticized Trump’s approach, with only a handful of pro-Israel lawmakers, like Sen. John Fetterman, expressing public approval. Golden, known for occasionally breaking with his party on national security, trade, and border policy, represents Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, a region Trump won by a substantial margin in 2024.

When asked for comment, the White House pointed to Trump’s statement on the Iranian missile attack against Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Trump noted that Iran’s response was “very weak,” with nearly all missiles intercepted and no American casualties. He thanked Iran for providing early notice of the attack, which prevented injuries and loss of life. “Perhaps Iran can now proceed to Peace and Harmony in the Region, and I will enthusiastically encourage Israel to do the same,” Trump stated.

DOJ and DHS Heighten Security Amid Iranian Threats

As tensions remain high, Attorney General Pam Bondi told lawmakers that the Department of Justice is on “high alert” for potential threats posed by Iranian nationals living in the United States. During a House budget hearing, Bondi acknowledged uncertainty over how many Iranians in the U.S. have been convicted of crimes but emphasized vigilance in monitoring recent arrivals. Border Patrol data shows that during President Joe Biden’s term, 1,504 Iranians were apprehended at the southern border, with about half released into the country.

Bondi’s remarks echoed a Department of Homeland Security notice warning that the conflict with Iran “is causing a heightened threat environment in the United States.” Officials expressed concerns about possible extremist activity and cyberattacks, as well as increased antisemitism.

The ongoing security review follows high-profile indictments, including a murder-for-hire plot allegedly orchestrated from Iran and targeting President Trump and dissidents in the U.S. “The charges announced today expose Iran’s continued brazen attempts to target U.S. citizens, including President-elect Donald Trump, other government leaders and dissidents who criticize the regime in Tehran,” FBI Director Christopher Wray said at the time.

As the situation develops, U.S. lawmakers and agencies continue to focus on defending Americans at home and abroad, monitoring both foreign threats and domestic security as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high.