The U.S. Senate on Thursday night narrowly failed to pass a resolution that would have limited President Donald Trump’s ability to launch military action against Venezuela without congressional approval.
The bipartisan War Powers Resolution (S.J. Res. 90), introduced by Senators Tim Kaine and Adam Schiff, alongside Republican Senator Rand Paul, was designed to reaffirm Congress’s constitutional authority over decisions of war and peace. The measure failed by a vote of 49–51.
Two Republicans — Senators Lisa Murkowski and Rand Paul — joined Democrats in supporting the resolution, signaling unease within the GOP over the prospect of another foreign military engagement. Despite its failure, the vote underscored the growing partisan and ideological divide in Washington over the Trump administration’s handling of Venezuela.
Even if the resolution had passed both chambers, it likely would have faced a presidential veto. Still, the vote carries political weight as Trump faces both domestic and international scrutiny amid a slow U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean.
Reports in U.S. media have suggested that President Trump is himself showing signs of hesitation. According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump privately expressed concerns that limited airstrikes might fail to compel Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to step down — an outcome that could leave Washington mired in a prolonged conflict.
Recent polling has also shown waning public support among Republicans for intervention in Venezuela. While nearly 70% supported potential strikes in September, that figure has dropped below 60%, with only 28% backing a full-scale invasion — a move analysts say would be necessary for regime change.
Tuesday’s disappointing election results for Republicans have added pressure on Trump from within his own party. Several conservative lawmakers and media personalities have warned the president to avoid costly foreign entanglements and instead refocus on domestic issues if the GOP hopes to maintain power in next year’s midterms.