Gillibrand calls for end to Iran war and cost relief

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York said that the newly elected Democratic majority must prioritize ending the war in Iran. She stated that the conflict drove up costs and helped contribute to Republican losses in the recent elections. Trump acknowledged Wednesday that the war played a role in those results, yet Iranian officials continue to warn against renewed U.S. Attacks.

Gillibrand identified lowering costs and restoring health care access as primary goals for the new Congress. She specifically challenged the president to reject bipartisan legislation that would restore Medicaid coverage. "I dare him to veto that," she said.

The senator proposed a ban on stock trading for members of Congress and senior administration officials. She suggested this measure could serve as a bipartisan bridge while Democrats pursue other legislative aims. "We can do both," she said.

Democrats face internal pressure to hold the current administration accountable. New investigative powers are available to the majority, and a third impeachment of the president is a possibility. Gillibrand did not commit to pursuing an impeachment vote during the interview.

The war in Iran served as a central theme in the discussion. Gillibrand cited the conflict as a reason for her party's electoral gains in several states. She noted that Trump had promised to avoid prolonged wars, a pledge she said he broke. "We have to end this war in Iran," she said. The specific mechanism Democrats will use to end the conflict remains unclear.