Trump Engages House Republicans Amid Venezuela Operation Backlash

Trump Engages House Republicans Following Venezuela Operation Briefing As tensions rise in Washington, President Trump is set to engage with House Republicans at the Kennedy Center, subsequent to a confidential briefing regarding a recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela that has ignited political discourse. This meeting comes after key administration figures briefed congressional leaders on Monday, revealing details of the operation that resulted in the apprehension of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores. The briefing provided an opportunity for prominent party leaders and members of Congress to question the administration about an initiative they learned of only after its execution. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., expressed support for the president’s unilateral actions during a post-briefing discussion. He stated, “We are not at war. We do not have U.S. armed forces in Venezuela, and we are not occupying that country.” Johnson emphasized, “The Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war — that is true — but it also vests the president of the United States with vast authorities as commander in chief.” Administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, spearheaded the briefing alongside CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Attorney General Pam Bondi. The Gang of Eight, comprising both Democratic and Republican leaders from critical congressional committees, attended the session. Trump’s conference at the Kennedy Center is anticipated to lay groundwork for the upcoming midterm elections, an event where the stakes for control of the House are significant. Historically, such meetings have enabled Trump to rally his party around major policy issues. Another briefing for all congressional members is planned for Wednesday, where further insights regarding U.S. intentions in Venezuela are expected to be disclosed. Political Reactions to U.S. Actions in Venezuela The operation in Venezuela has exacerbated existing political divides, with House Speaker Johnson stressing it was not a “regime change,” but a “demand for change in behavior by a regime.” He reaffirmed that while Trump indicated that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela until it reaches a “proper transition,” no American troops would be stationed there. Despite support from Republican leaders, Democrats have raised alarms about an increase in executive power under Trump, cautioning that such moves may lead to potential conflicts. Rep. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., articulated concern, stating, “It seems at every turn, Donald Trump is trying to figure out how he avoids Congress,” which reflects longstanding worries regarding congressional authority. In defense of the administration's approach, Johnson articulated that congressional powers remain intact. However, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., expressed dissatisfaction with the briefing, calling the administration’s plan for managing Venezuela “vague,” and “based on wishful thinking and unsatisfying.” As developments in Venezuela continue to unfold, additional briefings are expected to clarify the U.S. strategic position and response in the region. Copyright 2026 NPR