Adam Schiff says Trump 'absolutely not' following war powers law: Full interview - NBC News

In an interview with Meet the Press, Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) criticizes the Trump administration for not seeking Congressional authorization of the war with Iran after passing the 60-day deadline outlined in the War Powers Act.

The following summary is AI-generated.

Here are the most important points from Senator Adam Schiff's interview:

* Unlawful War Declaration: Schiff asserts that the current military conflict is unconstitutional because the President initiated a "war of choice" without Congressional authorization, violating the War Powers Act which mandates troop withdrawal after 60 days if Congress has not approved the action.

* Economic Impact and Gas Tax: The Senator links the war to rising inflation and the highest gas prices in years, stating he would support suspending the federal gas tax only if funded by a windfall profits tax on oil companies to avoid depleting infrastructure funds.

* Critique of Comey Indictment: Schiff describes the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey as a "vindictive prosecution" and a weak "seashell case" driven by political retribution rather than evidence, arguing it distracts the Justice Department from serious crimes like violent crime and child trafficking.

* Concerns Over DOJ Integrity: He highlights a mass exodus of career prosecutors who are leaving due to pressure to act unethically, warning that the Department of Justice is being weaponized for the President's political agenda rather than upholding the law.

* Redistricting and Gerrymandering: Schiff criticizes the Supreme Court's role in allowing partisan redistricting, noting that Democrats may feel forced to use race in map-drawing to counter Republican efforts, though he advocates for nationwide reform to prevent politicians from drawing their own maps.

* California Governor's Race: Regarding the California gubernatorial primary, Schiff declined to immediately endorse a new candidate after withdrawing support for Eric Swalwell, stating he will only get involved if the primary system risks producing a runoff with only Republican candidates.