The Southern California Republican delegation has voted against two resolutions aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s military actions in Latin America, particularly concerning Venezuela. The votes, which took place on September 27, 2023, reflect a growing divide within the party regarding the president’s aggressive foreign policy, especially in relation to drug trafficking and regime change.
The first resolution sought to compel President Trump to cease hostilities against groups he has designated as terrorists, including drug cartels. This measure failed with a vote of 216 against and 210 in favor. Notably, Representatives Ken Calvert, Young Kim, Jay Obernolte, and Darrell Issa opposed the resolution, asserting support for the administration’s approach to combat drug trafficking.
In contrast, Representative Norma Torres voiced strong objections, stating, “The president has no authority to launch military strikes without congressional approval.” She emphasized the importance of lawful cooperation with regional partners to address drug smuggling instead of resorting to military action, which she characterized as reckless.
The second resolution aimed to direct the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities in Venezuela not authorized by Congress. This proposal also failed, though by a narrower margin, with 213 members voting against it and 211 in favor. Only a few Republicans, including Thomas Massie, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Don Bacon, supported the measure, which sought to reaffirm Congress’s constitutional role in matters of war.
These votes underscore a significant issue within the Republican Party, where many members appear willing to endorse the president’s decisions without sufficient oversight. Critics argue that this delegation’s actions contribute to a concerning trend of diminishing congressional authority, particularly in matters of military engagement.
As the debate continues, the implications of these resolutions highlight a critical tension between executive power and legislative oversight. The responses from various representatives illustrate the divided opinions on how best to address drug trafficking and the situation in Venezuela, a nation that has faced severe political and economic turmoil under the leadership of Nicolás Maduro.
The outcomes of these votes could have lasting effects on U.S. foreign policy and the role of Congress in authorizing military actions. With the Republican Party at a crossroads, the decisions made today will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of American interventionist policies abroad.
