Washington, D.C. — Common Cause is calling on Congress to assert its constitutional authority and hold the Trump Administration accountable for its unilateral use of U.S. military and law enforcement forces in Venezuela.

The action was taken without congressional authorization and represents a dangerous and unconstitutional expansion of presidential power that risks American lives, credibility, and long-term national interests.  

Statement of Virginia Kase Solomón, Common Cause President & CEO 

 Americans should never be dragged into armed conflict without debate, accountability, and a clear explanation of why it serves the nation’s interests. Nor should we be occupying or running a sovereign nation. It is clear from President Trump’s statements that his purpose and that of his corporate allies is to take control over Venezuela’s oil resources.

The U.S. military is not a global police force, and criminal allegations do not authorize unilateral military action inside another sovereign nation.

Congress must step in and defend the constitutional system that protects American service members, American taxpayers, and American credibility. When presidents bypass Congress, the costs are paid by the country, not the people who ordered the action.

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 To view Common Cause’s policy statement, click here.