Five Republican senators have joined with Democrats to advance legislation that would block President Donald Trump from launching future attacks on Venezuela without congressional approval. This move comes after the president claimed the U.S. could oversee the country's affairs for years, sparking a symbolic rebuke from some Republicans.
In a 52-47 vote, the bill will now proceed for consideration and require an additional vote to pass. This development is seen as a strong message to Trump that even some Republicans are against his plans for Venezuela.
Trump responded harshly to the Republican senators who voted in favor of the measure, stating they should "never be elected to office again." The legislation aims to restrict the president's authority to engage in hostilities without congressional approval, and its passage is seen as a significant moment for democracy.
While some Republicans initially opposed similar measures, three senators who had previously backed these resolutions switched their votes after Trump made his comments. Among them are Collins of Maine, Young of Indiana, and Hawley of Missouri.
The legislation's lead Democratic sponsor, Tim Kaine, noted that the vote is about ensuring that Congress has a crucial role in declaring war and engaging in hostilities. He also conceded to wavering Republicans by acknowledging that the execution of an open arrest warrant for Maduro may have been valid on its own.
If passed, this resolution would require Trump's approval from Congress if he were to launch future attacks on Venezuela. Despite having a slim margin of victory, advocates argue it sends a powerful message about reining in Trump's unchecked power and will restrain the White House if the measure ultimately falls short.
Additionally, a group of bipartisan members announced that they plan to reintroduce war powers resolutions in the lower chamber. The move is seen as an effort to build on momentum gained by this vote, pushing for increased scrutiny over the administration's plans in Venezuela.
In a 52-47 vote, the bill will now proceed for consideration and require an additional vote to pass. This development is seen as a strong message to Trump that even some Republicans are against his plans for Venezuela.
Trump responded harshly to the Republican senators who voted in favor of the measure, stating they should "never be elected to office again." The legislation aims to restrict the president's authority to engage in hostilities without congressional approval, and its passage is seen as a significant moment for democracy.
While some Republicans initially opposed similar measures, three senators who had previously backed these resolutions switched their votes after Trump made his comments. Among them are Collins of Maine, Young of Indiana, and Hawley of Missouri.
The legislation's lead Democratic sponsor, Tim Kaine, noted that the vote is about ensuring that Congress has a crucial role in declaring war and engaging in hostilities. He also conceded to wavering Republicans by acknowledging that the execution of an open arrest warrant for Maduro may have been valid on its own.
If passed, this resolution would require Trump's approval from Congress if he were to launch future attacks on Venezuela. Despite having a slim margin of victory, advocates argue it sends a powerful message about reining in Trump's unchecked power and will restrain the White House if the measure ultimately falls short.
Additionally, a group of bipartisan members announced that they plan to reintroduce war powers resolutions in the lower chamber. The move is seen as an effort to build on momentum gained by this vote, pushing for increased scrutiny over the administration's plans in Venezuela.
Just think about it, we gotta hold our leaders accountable 
. Can't let them just make decisions without us being informed 
. It's not about being the opposition, it's about doing what's right 
. Trump's words might be harsh, but I feel sorry for those senators who changed their minds 
. This vote is a good start, but we gotta keep pushing for more transparency and checks on power 
.
I'm so hyped about this new development 
! Like seriously, Trump's ego can't handle some Republicans standing up to him 
. Collins, Young and Hawley just showed that they're not afraid of his tantrums 
. It's time for Congress to step up and take control of our foreign policy decisions 
. I'm loving the fact that even some Republicans are speaking out against Trump's aggressive stance on Venezuela 
. This is a major win for democracy 
and a huge blow to Trump's authoritarian tendencies 
. The fact that three senators who initially backed similar resolutions switched their votes after Trump's comments says it all about how toxic his rhetoric can be 
. We need more of this kind of courage from our elected officials 
That's like trying to negotiate with a toddler who throws tantrums when they don't get their way 
. It suggests that even some Republicans are not immune to the influence of Trump's personal attacks and that they may be more willing to support legislation that challenges his authority.
. However, by pushing forward with this legislation, Democrats are making a strong case for Congress's role in declaring war and engaging in hostilities.
. It suggests that there is momentum building towards increased scrutiny of the administration's plans in Venezuela and that lawmakers are taking steps to ensure that Congressional input remains a crucial part of the foreign policy process.
! It's like a big ol' "NO" sign from some of our fellow Republicans 
, and you know what? It's about time we had a strong reminder that our President isn't above the law 
.
. Crazy, right? But seriously, this legislation is all about ensuring Congress has a say in when (or if) we go to war 
. It's like they're all thinking, "Uh-oh, did the big guy just burn his own party?" 
! Maybe we'll get some much-needed balance between the branches of government 
!
. Like, seriously, who throws shade at their own party members? That Collins girl from Maine should just roll her eyes and be done with it