Reactions to the U.S. Action in Venezuela

A House Democrat has expressed support for President Trump’s capture of Nicolás Maduro following a surprise U.S. operation in Venezuela over the weekend. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Florida, commented on social media, calling the arrest of the Venezuelan leader, known for his oppressive regime, welcome news for those who fled his rule.

She expressed hope that this action would pave the way for genuine democracy in Venezuela, stating, “Venezuelans deserve the promise of democracy and the rule of law, not a state of endless violence and spiraling anarchy.” However, she voiced concern about the lack of prior notice to Congress regarding the military action.

Wasserman Schultz criticized the administration for bypassing Congress, saying, “I demand answers as to why Congress and the American people were bypassed in this effort.” She emphasized the importance of Congressional involvement to prevent the continuation of an illegitimate regime.

Notably, Florida is home to many Venezuelan refugees and others from communist regimes, which might shape her perspective on the situation.

Her reaction stands in contrast to those of many other Democrats, who largely condemned Trump for authorizing what they allege is illegal interference in Venezuela’s sovereignty. Many Democratic lawmakers have argued that the Trump administration’s actions undermine both American law and international norms.

Rep. Yvette Clark of New York expressed this sentiment by labeling the attack unconstitutional and a direct threat to democracy, while Senator Ruben Gallego mirrored these concerns, citing the dangers of waging war without Congressional approval. “There is no justifiable reason for the United States to go to war with Venezuela,” he stated, reflecting on his own experiences as a veteran of the Iraq War. “We vowed never to make that mistake again.”

Virginia’s Rep. Eugene Vindman also criticized the move, asserting that it violates the Constitution, and noting the challenges of starting wars that are difficult to end. His concerns highlight a broader anxiety among some lawmakers regarding military actions without clear goals or plans.

Rep. Eric Swalwell pointed to the lack of public interest in such military operations, emphasizing that illegal conflicts are not a priority for his constituents. He described the actions taken against Venezuela as gross violations of both international law and the U.S. Constitution.

Not all Democrats have been equally forceful in their criticism; some have opted for a more cautious approach, seeking clarification from the White House regarding the motivations and implications of this military action.

In the backdrop of this situation, Congressman Adriano Espaillat stated a clear opposition to Maduro’s regime but highlighted that Trump’s military action raises serious constitutional concerns. He urged for immediate Congressional briefings to ensure lawmakers are adequately informed about the developments in Venezuela.

This reaction follows a statement from Trump, who claimed that the United States had conducted a significant strike against Venezuelan leadership and indicated that Maduro and his wife had been captured while attempting to flee.

Subsequently, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that both Maduro and his wife had been indicted in New York, adding a legal dimension to the unfolding events.