Chatter and fear about US military draft emerge as Trump's Iran war drags on

[ToxMarz]

10. Presidential Authority: Under the 1973 War Powers Act

Presidential Authority: Under the 1973 War Powers Act, the president can deploy troops for 90 days, but cannot initiate a draft without legislative approval.

The last draft occurred in 1973, and although a 2024 measure automatically registers men 18-26 for Selective Service, a return to the draft would require a direct act of Congress.

A U.S. president cannot independently order a military draft for war. Congress holds the constitutional power to "raise and support Armies," meaning they must pass new legislation to authorize a draft, which the president would then sign. While the Selective Service System remains active, the authority to induct personnel expired in 1973.