According to a Washington Post report, nearly 200 Democratic members of Congress agreed to file a lawsuit Wednesday against President Trump alleging that by retaining interests in a global business empire he has violated constitutional restrictions on taking gifts and benefits from foreign leaders.

A copy of the legal complaint reviewed by the Post argues that those in Congress have special standing because the Constitution’s “foreign emoluments clause” requires the president to obtain “the consent of Congress” before accepting any gifts.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), the lead senator filing the complaint in federal district court, said Tuesday that the lawsuit has already drawn more congressional plaintiffs — 196 — than any legal action previously taken against a president.

No Republicans had joined in the lawsuit so far, although they will be invited to do so, Blumenthal said.

Rep. John Conyers Jr. (D-Mich.) led the legal effort in the House, according to the report.

A memo prepared by the Senate plaintiff states that “these benefits include any compensation for services rendered in a private capacity such as when a foreign government throws a party at a hotel owned by a federal official.”

The move is likely to escalate tensions between the White House and Capitol Hill, where at least five committees are investigating various issues related to the Trump administration.

RELATED: Attorney Generals In DC And Maryland File Major Lawsuit Against President Trump. ShareTweet