A model of an F-35 in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, April 30, 2026. [Kenny Holston/The New York Times]
The first congressional push to block Turkey’s return to the F-35 program is now underway in Washington.
Eighteen Democratic lawmakers, without any Republican support, led by Rep. Dina Titus and joined by several prominent members of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, have urged House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries to be prepared to use every legislative tool available to prevent the Trump administration from moving forward with Turkey’s reinstatement in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.
The letter was addressed to both House leaders for a specific procedural reason. Unlike a traditional Joint Resolution of Disapproval, which may be introduced by any member of Congress, Section 216 of CAATSA establishes expedited procedures for measures concerning sanctions determinations. Under those provisions, a Joint Resolution of Disapproval in the House may be introduced by either the Majority Leader or the Minority Leader. By addressing both Steve Scalise and Hakeem Jeffries, the lawmakers are urging either leader to be prepared to initiate the process should the Trump administration attempt to move forward with Turkey’s return to the F-35 program.
