Protesters rally outside the White House Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, in Washington, after the U.S. captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife in a military operation.
Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP
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Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP
President Trump’s decision to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has garnered mixed reactions, with Republicans showing support and Democrats expressing opposition. The military operation has stirred controversy and raised questions about its legality. Here is an overview of the responses:
Republicans’ Views on Trump’s Invasion
While many conservative lawmakers backed Trump’s move, a few Republican representatives and senators criticized the action, calling it unauthorized and misguided.
“If the President believes military action against Venezuela is needed, he should make the case and Congress should vote before American lives and treasure are spent on regime change in South America,” said Rep. Thomas Massie from Kentucky.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia expressed skepticism about the invasion’s motives and criticized it for deviating from “America First” principles.
Retired U.S. Air Force Brigadier General and Rep. Don Bacon praised the operation but warned about potential repercussions from other authoritarian regimes.
Several Republican senators also raised concerns about the invasion’s legality and its implications, despite acknowledging Maduro’s removal.
Democrats’ Response to the Invasion
While many Democrats denounced Maduro as a dictator, they criticized Trump’s military action, citing concerns about regime change and violation of laws.
Senator Chuck Schumer accused Trump of unconstitutional behavior and expressed fear about the U.S. intervening in Venezuela’s governance.
Senator Adam Schiff cautioned against unilateral military actions without congressional approval, warning of potential chaos in the region.
Trump campaigned on an “America First” platform. Now he wants to “run” Venezuela?
60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Health care is collapsing. Housing is unaffordable.
Trump should address these major crises at home and end his illegal military adventurism abroad. pic.twitter.com/vyoNpEcn4a
— Sen. Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) January 3, 2026
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized the military strike as a diversion tactic by Trump and questioned the motives behind the intervention.

