President Trump delivered a scathing rebuke to a handful of Republican senators, publicly questioning their loyalty after they challenged his authority regarding potential military intervention in Venezuela. The outburst occurred during a speech in Detroit, following a visit to a Ford plant, and revealed a deep frustration with dissent within his own party.
Trump lamented the lack of unity among Republicans, contrasting it sharply with the unwavering solidarity displayed by Democrats, whom he described as sticking together “like glue.” He singled out Senators Rand Paul, Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, and Todd Young for particular criticism, labeling some as “losers” despite acknowledging most as “great.”
The core of the dispute centered on a resolution led by Senator Tim Kaine, which would require congressional approval before any further military action is taken in Venezuela. The senators’ support for the resolution, which advanced despite unified Democratic backing, ignited Trump’s ire and prompted a demand that they “never be elected to office again.”
Trump openly questioned the senators’ reasoning, expressing disbelief that they would oppose what he characterized as a remarkably successful and “brilliant tactical attack” in Venezuela. He pressed for an explanation, repeatedly asking, “Why are they against the attack?” and highlighting their inability to articulate a clear justification for their stance.
Senator Paul has consistently advocated for congressional oversight of military actions, co-sponsoring Kaine’s resolution. Murkowski, Collins, and Young, while not objecting to the apprehension of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, maintained their vote was intended to safeguard Congress’ constitutional authority over future interventions.
The White House and Senate Republican leadership reportedly engaged in efforts to sway the dissenting senators, but these attempts appeared to be falling short. Senator Collins affirmed her continued support for the resolution, while Senator Josh Hawley, who also initially supported the measure, engaged in discussions with administration officials regarding the scope of potential military involvement.
Hawley expressed concern specifically about the deployment of ground troops without congressional authorization. Administration officials assured him that any such action would require a return to Congress for approval, a concession that appeared to address his primary concern and potentially influence his final vote.
However, the administration maintained that the resolution’s language was overly broad, extending beyond the issue of ground troops. Despite this, Hawley remained in a “listening and receive mode,” carefully considering the administration’s assurances before making a final decision.
Trump’s public reprimand underscored the intense political stakes surrounding the Venezuela issue and his determination to maintain control over foreign policy decisions. The upcoming final vote on the resolution promised to be a significant test of his authority and the cohesion of the Republican party.
