Senators Seek to Limit Executive Authority Following Strikes Against Drug Cartels
Following recent U.S. military strikes targeting drug cartels near Venezuela, Senators Adam schiff and Tim Kaine have introduced a war powers resolution aimed at clarifying the scope of presidential authority to use military force abroad. The resolution explicitly states that the trafficking of illegal drugs does not constitute an armed attack or imminent threat of attack justifying military action under existing authorizations.
The move comes amidst a broader push from lawmakers across the political spectrum to reassert Congressional authority over military actions, particularly in light of expansive Authorizations for Use of Military Force (aumfs) passed after the 9/11 attacks. These AUMFs have been utilized by multiple administrations to justify military operations against terrorist groups globally. While former President Trump designated certain Venezuela-based groups, like Tren de Aragua, as foreign terrorist organizations, Congress has not authorized military force specifically against these entities.
The recent strikes have sparked debate. While some Republican lawmakers have expressed support, Senator Rand Paul has sharply criticized the Trump management’s actions, specifically objecting to comments made by Vice President J.D. Vance who stated that ”killing cartel members who poison our fellow citizens is the highest and best use of our military.” Paul responded, calling such a statement a “despicable and thoughtless sentiment” and criticizing the glorification of killing without due process.
Schiff indicated ongoing engagement with Republican senators at the staff level, expressing a desire for bipartisan support for the resolution. As a privileged resolution, the Senate is obligated to vote on the measure in the near future, though the exact timing remains uncertain.
The White House has responded critically to the resolution. Deputy spokesperson Anna Kelly labeled the effort as “shameful,” accusing Democrats of “running cover for evil narcoterrorists” and highlighting the notable number of American deaths due to drug overdoses. Kelly defended the President’s actions as being in line with the laws of armed conflict and fulfilling a promise to address the cartel threat.
Furthermore, draft legislation is reportedly being circulated within the White House and on Capitol Hill that would grant President Trump broad authority to target groups involved in terrorism and drug trafficking, as well as the nations that provide them safe harbor. Schiff expressed skepticism that such sweeping legislation could pass Congress, calling it a potentially “new and breathtaking low” for the legislative branch. he emphasized the dangers of granting the President new, broad authority to use deadly force, particularly given the expansive interpretation of post-9/11 authorizations.
