The most influential Jewish member of Congress announced on Thursday he would oppose the Iran nuclear deal that's being aggressively pushed by the Obama administration.
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.), the third-ranking member in the chamber, said he opposed the deal because he did not trust Iran would change, and the deal did not sufficiently ensure the rogue state complied with its terms.
"After deep study, careful thought and considerable soul-searching, I have decided I must oppose the agreement and will vote yes on a motion of disapproval," Schumer wrote in a statement.
Schumer’s decision has been anticipated for weeks.
"I will vote to disapprove the agreement, not because I believe war is a viable or desirable option, nor to challenge the path of diplomacy," Schumer said. "It is because I believe Iran will not change, and under this agreement it will be able to achieve its dual goals of eliminating sanctions while ultimately retaining its nuclear and non-nuclear power."
CNN reported the White House believes Schumer only came out against the deal after enough support was guaranteed for it to sustain a presidential veto.
Believed to be a key vote, Schumer played down how much influence he will be able to yield.
"There are some who believe that I can force my colleagues to vote my way," Schumer said. "While I will certainly share my view and try to persuade them that the vote to disapprove is the right one, in my experience with matters of conscience and great consequence like this, each member ultimately comes to their own conclusion."