House Democrats praise Trump for capturing Nicolas Maduro as ‘major step’ toward democracy
WASHINGTON, DC: On Saturday, January 3, several House Democrats publicly reacted to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro following an operation ordered by the Trump administration.
Many expressed support for the outcome, praising the removal of a long-time authoritarian leader. At the same time, some raised concerns about the manner in which the operation was carried out and its legal implications.
Democrats praise Trump's action on Nicolas Maduro
A number of House Democrats highlighted the significance of Maduro’s capture and described it as a potential step toward democracy for the people of Venezuela.
Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz called Maduro as dictator and hailed the capture as “welcome news,” particularly for residents who had fled his “violent, lawless, and disastrous rule.”
On X, she wrote that Venezuelans “deserve the promise of democracy and the rule of law,” emphasizing hope that the event could open a path toward “true democracy and liberation."
Wasserman Schultz also cautioned, “However, cutting off the head of a snake is fruitless if it just regrows,” adding that this should allow the seating of Venezuela’s “true, democratically elected president, Edmundo Gonzalez.”
Representative Darren Soto said, “Capturing the murderous dictator Maduro is a major step” toward a free Venezuela, expressing his desire to see Gonzalez installed “as the rightful new president.”
Representative Jared Moskowitz added that Maduro’s rule included oppression, imprisonment of political opponents, and stolen elections. He thanked the military involved in the operation for their “courage and professionalism.”
The Washington Post described the operation as a “major victory for American interests,” noting the broader implications for the region.
For years, Maduro has brutally oppressed the people of Venezuela, committed human rights violations, imprisoned political opponents, and stolen elections. His actions have caused millions of Venezuelans to flee and have left millions more to suffer hunger, violence, and a lack of…
— Congressman Jared Moskowitz (@RepMoskowitz) January 3, 2026
Legal and constitutional concerns from House Democrats
Despite praising the outcome, several Democrats voiced concerns about the legality and process of the operation.
Soto criticized the Trump administration for not notifying Congress or obtaining approval prior to the strike that led to Maduro’s capture. He said this failure raises “serious questions about the legality of the mission.”
He added, “The Administration made multiple false promises that it would not invade Venezuela without Congressional consent.”
During a Saturday press conference, the president explained that the operation was kept secret because “Congress has a tendency to leak.”
Moskowitz stressed that any further actions to dismantle Maduro’s “illegitimate rule” must follow the US Constitution, be “guided by de-escalation, protection of innocent lives, regional stability, and respect for constitutional and international norms.”
He added, “After being told by the administration that the correct congressional leaders would be briefed, there is no evidence that this took place.”
