Key Takeaways:

• Senate Judiciary leaders say it’s wrong to leave them out of the Venezuela briefing.
• The administration calls the Maduro capture a law enforcement action.
• Grassley and Durbin argue they have clear oversight of DOJ, FBI and DEA.
• The move sparks debate among pro-Trump noninterventionists and oversight supporters.

President Trump has refused to include the Senate Judiciary Committee in the Venezuela briefing. This briefing outlines how U.S. forces helped capture Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro. Lawmakers from both parties are upset. They say Congress must get full details on the operation.

What Is the Venezuela Briefing About?

The Venezuela briefing covers the recent mission to seize Nicolás Maduro. The White House says it was a law enforcement action. They note the Justice Department, FBI and DEA led the effort. This avoids the need for congressional approval that a military mission would require. Still, the Senate Judiciary Committee oversees these agencies. It also vetted the leaders running them.

Why Was the Judiciary Left Out of the Venezuela Briefing?

Attorney General officials will attend a private briefing for senators. However, Judiciary leaders were not invited. This surprised Chairman Chuck Grassley and ranking member Dick Durbin. They wrote that the committee has clear jurisdiction over the DOJ, FBI and DEA. They called the exclusion “unacceptable.” They demand full access to any files and testimony about the Venezuela briefing.

Political Reactions to the Exclusion

Republicans broadly support the Maduro operation. Yet this split some pro-Trump noninterventionists. They backed Trump for avoiding new foreign wars. Meanwhile, Democrats accuse the White House of hiding key details. Some worry about secret agreements and unapproved actions. Both sides see this fight as part of a larger battle over power and oversight.

How Does This Affect Oversight and Transition Plans?

The fight comes amid controversies over the presidential transition. Critics worry about the smooth hand-off of power. They fear more secret operations could occur without chance for review. Senate leaders insist that Congress must hold hearings. They also want to question agency heads on future missions. With time running out, the clock ticks on how much the next administration can uncover.

What Might Come Next?

Grassley and Durbin say they will press for an immediate briefing. They could threaten subpoenas if officials refuse to cooperate. Other committees may join the effort for information. At the same time, lawmakers will debate how to prevent similar exclusions. They may propose rules to force briefings on all major operations. Ultimately, this fight could reshape how Washington shares sensitive details with Congress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did President Trump call it a law enforcement action?

He said the Operation to capture Maduro involved DOJ, FBI and DEA. That label avoids needing military approval.

Does the Senate Judiciary Committee oversee military missions?

No. Its main role is to oversee justice and law enforcement agencies, not the military.

Could this exclusion delay future briefings?

Yes. If leaders refuse to cooperate, Congress may use subpoenas or other measures.

How might this impact U.S. relations with Venezuela?

Public disputes over the operation could complicate diplomatic efforts and negotiations.