Senate Republicans Weigh Unusual Move on War Powers in Venezuela

Senate Republicans are exploring a complex strategy that could undo a bipartisan effort aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s war powers in Venezuela.

In the Senate, procedural rules hold significant weight, influencing how bills are debated and how discussions unfold. Republicans are optimistic that tactics previously employed by Senate Democrats might help them override Virginia Senator Tim Kaine’s resolution regarding war powers.

They argue that Kaine’s initiative lacks substance because, currently, there are no U.S. troops in Venezuela and no active military engagement.

Despite this, there’s uncertainty about whether the Republicans can gather enough support to effectively counter the resolution. Last week, five Republican senators broke ranks to advocate for a resolution likely requiring only a simple majority of 50 votes.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune remarked that he wasn’t sure if they had sufficient votes to block bipartisan efforts. He suggested that, given the absence of hostilities in Venezuela, the resolution might not be relevant and could be dismissed.

“I think it’s quite clear, at least from my perspective, that hostilities are not happening right now. This implies, to me, that the Senate floor shouldn’t be used to discuss something that is currently nonexistent,” Thune stated, adding, “But ultimately, it’s about the votes.”

Meanwhile, Senate Democrats had previously utilized a similar argument against Senator Ted Cruz’s war powers resolution back in 2024, which sought to stop U.S. involvement near Gaza.

Kaine’s resolution, however, is more future-oriented. If passed, it would ensure that Congress retains oversight over any military action in Venezuela. The Trump administration has clarified that there are currently no military operations planned following the positive outcome of Operation Absolute Resolve.

Republicans’ chances of defeating the resolution before a final vote—potentially initiating a lengthy amendment process known as “vote-a-rama”—will measure their lobbying strength alongside the White House’s influence over the five Republican defectors. Trump’s continuous criticism of Republican senators siding with Democrats could potentially backfire and allow the resolution to pass.

Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), and Rand Paul (R-Ky.) are expected to face close scrutiny. Collins reiterated her support for the War Powers Resolution, while Paul, a co-sponsor, appears unlikely to shift his stance.

However, a source revealed that Hawley has changed his position and now intends to support the order after receiving assurances from Trump officials that U.S. boots will not be deployed in Venezuela.