House Minority Leader’s Stance
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has expressed skepticism regarding the idea that Venezuelans will benefit from the Trump administration’s involvement in their country.
The New York Democrat did not hold back in his criticism of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, labeling him a “bad guy.” However, he emphasized that it remains uncertain whether conditions in Venezuela will actually improve.
“Donald Trump claims that he’s going to run Venezuela. He’s done a terrible job running the United States of America,” Jeffries stated during an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
He pointed out that President Trump has failed to fulfill basic promises domestically, such as reducing living costs and enhancing healthcare. This raises questions about why anyone would expect a different outcome internationally.
“So the notion that he’s going to run Venezuela and make life better for the Venezuelan people is belied by the facts regarding his presidency here in the United States,” Jeffries remarked.
Following Maduro’s capture, Trump claimed that the U.S. would “run” Venezuela temporarily. Democrats have criticized this decision, arguing that it overstepped constitutional boundaries by proceeding without congressional approval.
“This was a military action, and according to the Constitution, only Congress has the authority to declare war or authorize such actions,” Jeffries asserted. “We must ensure legislative measures are taken upon our return to Washington, D.C., to prevent further military actions without explicit congressional consent.”
In response, Trump dismissed these concerns, asserting that the operation was merely a law-enforcement action rather than a military engagement requiring congressional approval.
Representative Jamie Raskin from Maryland suggested that Trump is attempting to divert attention from his domestic challenges. “No one is confused by the timing of this rampage against American constitutional norms and international law,” Raskin stated. He highlighted various issues facing Americans under Trump’s presidency.
