Raging Moderates with Scott Galloway and Jessica Tarlov Can Democrats Criticize Trump’s Invasion Without Defending Maduro?
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Jan 7, 2026 
Ben Meiselas, co-founder of the Meidas Touch Network, dives into the implications of Nicolás Maduro's arrest and how Democrats can navigate criticism without defending authoritarianism. He raises concerns about the operation's legality, exploring U.S. geopolitical interests amid tensions with China and Russia in Venezuela. They also tackle the welfare fraud scandal impacting Minnesota's governor and the contentious debate over a billionaire wealth tax, highlighting the challenges Democrats face in addressing economic anxieties.
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Rule Of Law Over Political Gain
- Ben Meiselas argues the Maduro operation was an unlawful invasion because there was no congressional authorization and visible military force.
- He says leaders must defend constitutional principles even if it's politically costly.
Geopolitical Stakes Often Go Unstated
- Jessica Tarlov and Ben highlight China, Russia and Iran's growing footprint in Venezuela as an underemphasized factor.
- Ben says any intervention must be transparently justified to Congress and the public before action.
Decapitating Doesn’t Guarantee Democracy
- Ben notes U.S. weakness in planning a democratic transition after removing an authoritarian leader.
- He warns Trump appears to prefer a puppet regime over a genuine democratic outcome in Venezuela.