Bloomberg Talks Instant Reaction: Trump Says US to ‘Run Venezuela’ in Interim After Maduro
Jan 3, 2026
Rep. Brad Schneider, a Democratic congressman from Illinois and chair of the New Democrat Coalition, discusses the legality and implications of the U.S. involvement in Venezuela following President Trump's announcement of U.S. control. Justin Logan, director at the Cato Institute, critiques the administration's rationale, labeling it as misleading, especially regarding claims about fentanyl and deaths. The conversation reveals concerns over war powers, the motives tied to Venezuelan oil, and the political optics of regime change.
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U.S. Says It Will Temporarily Run Venezuela
- President Trump stated the U.S. will run Venezuela until a safe, proper transition can occur.
- That marks an unprecedented direct U.S. claim of interim governance over another country.
Congress Needs An Immediate Legal Briefing
- Congressman Brad Schneider urged the administration to brief Congress immediately and justify the attack legally.
- He insisted Congress must be shown the threat and legal authority for the operation.
Running Venezuela Looks Deliberate But Ill-Defined
- Justin Logan said the phrase 'we're going to run the country' appeared in prepared remarks, indicating deliberateness.
- He warned that running Venezuela is a heavy lift and the administration lacks clear plans.