Larson Statement on Unauthorized Military Operation in Venezuela

East Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s unauthorized military operation in Venezuela. 

“This is yet another authoritarian power grab by Donald Trump. As he indicated in his address, it’s clear it’s about the oil!!! And securing that oil!!! And securing it with the use of our brave men and women in the United States military!!! The Constitution entrusts Congress, not the President, with the power to declare war for a reason,” said Larson. “It’s Congress’s responsibility to decide whether the nation goes to war or not! That’s why I’m joining with others in calling on the President to immediately brief Congress—and for Congress to assert its authority under the Constitution and the War Powers Act—to let this President know he does not have the authority to unilaterally commit our country to yet another endless war.

 “From voting against these unauthorized strikes in December to voting against the war in Iraq, I have consistently stood firm against reckless wars that endanger our nation’s security, undermine our credibility, and force working families to pay the price in blood and dollars," Larson continued. "I will not stand by while this nihilist president bypasses Congress, ignores the rule of law, and commits our nation to yet another open-ended conflict without consent, or justification, or a plan. 

 “At a time when working families are already paying the price for this administration’s authoritarian rule, through higher costs for health care, groceries, and everyday necessities, this escalation is indefensible and unwarranted. The American people deserve better,” Larson concluded.