On January 3, 2026, U.S. military and law enforcement officials detained Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. I want to recognize everyone involved in Operation Absolute Solution for successfully bringing President Maduro back to the United States and ensuring there were no American casualties.
Maduro faces serious accusations, including being a narco-terrorist responsible for poisoning over 100,000 Americans. Beyond that, he has connections to transnational criminal organizations and maintains ties with adversarial nations like China, Iran, and Russia.
Like President Trump, I am committed to combating this corruption. Operation Absolute Resolve has made notable strides. Now, people are keen to know, “What’s next?” My legislation, the American Act, outlines that pathway.
The U.S. must establish a coherent strategy for the Western Hemisphere that bolsters American manufacturing, fights corruption, and counters foreign powers aiming to assert influence over neighboring nations. Look at Venezuela: under Maduro, China quickly established a foothold, gaining power even as the nation deteriorated. Without a unified approach, we could allow the Chinese Communist Party to dictate the future of our hemisphere.
China is leveraging a straightforward tactic: using trade and investment to cultivate influence while undermining local governments. If we disregard this issue, it will adversely affect American workers, families, and businesses. President Trump and I aim to create a more level playing field and enhance job opportunities in our country. My America Act will accomplish this by revitalizing manufacturing, curbing Chinese influence, and strengthening ties with the U.S. and its neighbors in the Western Hemisphere.
This act would establish the American Investment Corporation, providing the U.S. government with practical tools for negotiation and collaboration with allies. It would enable private sector partnerships for investment and ensure projects align with U.S. interests, fostering future investments. Think about ventures like lithium or rare earth mining in Bolivia, liquefied natural gas projects in Argentina, or modernizing ports in Panama and Chile. These initiatives could generate significant wealth in a region historically plagued by economic stagnation while allowing the U.S. to fairly share in the benefits. Additionally, it would mitigate political and commercial risks for American companies wishing to invest. The real challenge isn’t capital; it’s about managing risk. This would help firms decrease risks and create safe, transparent, and mutually beneficial opportunities.
The more we encourage overall economic growth, the more robust America’s economy will become. We can foster prosperity throughout the Western Hemisphere, ensuring families can afford basic necessities. We have the capability to prevent authoritarian figures like Maduro from taking power peacefully.
President Trump and the Republican Party have committed to addressing America’s national security issues, and we will fulfill that commitment. Maduro’s removal is a promising development for our nation and our allies.
The Inter-American Act represents a clear and sensible next step in safeguarding America while ensuring good-paying jobs. This is a plan intended for future generations, one that fortifies the U.S. while uplifting our neighbors in the hemisphere. It is crucial that President Trump and the Republican Party collaborate to pass the Americas Act and cultivate the strongest region globally.
