This weekend, U.S. Democrats were up in arms after a surprise raid in Venezuela led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Members of Congress say they had zero heads-up—and they’re calling out President Trump for misleading them.
Top voices like Senator Andy Kim took to X saying, "Secretaries Rubio and Hegseth looked every Senator in the eye a few weeks ago and said this wasn't about regime change. I didn't trust them then and we see now that they blatantly lied to Congress." 😲
Jason Crow, from the House Armed Services and Intelligence committees, echoed the outrage: "The Trump Administration repeatedly lied to Congress and the American people about Venezuela. Over and over, officials testified that this was not about regime change." 🤔
Senator Jeanne Shaheen slammed the White House for keeping lawmakers in the dark on any long-term strategy. "Consistently misled," she charged, demanding an immediate briefing on the operation and next steps.
Senator Chris Coons didn’t hold back: "A military operation to capture and overthrow a president—even an illegitimate one—is an act of war that must be authorized by Congress." ⚖️
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer joined the chorus, pointing out the lack of congressional authorization and demanding proof to justify this action. "Too many questions remain unanswered," Jeffries warned.
Meanwhile, Republican leaders like Senator John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson say briefings are coming soon, praising the move as a step toward justice for Maduro’s alleged drug crimes. The split reaction highlights a brewing battle over war powers and executive authority. 🌐
Reference(s):
Democrats accuse Trump of lying to Congress about goals in Venezuela
cgtn.com
