The five Senate Republicans who broke rank with Trump on Venezuela war powers

Published January 8, 2026 1:13pm ET



Five Senate Republicans helped deliver a rare congressional setback for President Donald Trump on Thursday after voting with Democrats to advance a bipartisan measure that restricts further military operations against Venezuela without congressional approval.

The outcome marked a significant rebuke of Trump’s actions in the South American country after the United States captured and removed former dictator Nicolas Maduro from power.

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.