Central New York’s congressional representatives issued swift reactions to the U-S military action in Venezuela Saturday. The operation resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. Maduro faces drug trafficking charges, and is scheduled to be charged in the US Justice system.
Republican Congress Member Claudia Tenney (R-NY 24) called the attack “decisive and definitive” while referring to Maduro as a dictator.
“This operation sends a clear message that the United States will stand firmly against tyranny and corruption that threaten US security in our hemisphere,” she said in a post on social media platform X.
Tenney, long a supporter of President Trump, praised the military that carried out the operation. “Their service continues to protect freedom and uphold American leadership on the world stage.”
Meanwhile, Democrat John Mannion (D-NY 22), often a critic of President Trump's policies, led his press release on the incident by also praising the troops. “I commend the men and women of the United States military for carrying out a brave, highly complex, and precision operation in Venezuela.”
He focused on next steps, both for the leadership in Venezuela and for the administration to explain the actions to the American people.
“What comes next is just as important as understanding how we got here. The American people deserve transparency, accountability, and a clear assessment of U.S. interests,” Mannion added in a release.
He further questioned President Trump’s statement that the US would “run” Venezuela, noting that the “United States has a checkered history with foreign interventions and regime change.”
Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) took a more critical tone.
“The idea that Trump plans to now run Venezuela should strike fear in the hearts of all Americans. The American people have seen this before and paid the devastating price,” Schumer said on social media.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said she was briefed on the operation, while criticizing President Trump for taking the action without approval or communication with Congress.
“New York is home to a vibrant Venezuelan community, and I stand with families here and abroad in their hopes for a better, more stable future. While there are no credible threats to New York at this time, State Police are coordinating with our partners in law enforcement to monitor the situation and keep New Yorkers safe.” Hochul said.
