But, Law Professor Jonathan Turley wants a word ...
Jonathan Turley (@JonathanTurley) ~ Democratic members quickly denounced the operation as unlawful. They may want to review past cases, particularly the decision related to the Noriega prosecution. Rep. Jim McGovern (D., Mass) declared:
"Without authorization from Congress, and with the vast majority of Americans opposed to military action, Trump just launched an unjustified, illegal strike on Venezuela. He says we don’t have enough money for healthcare for Americans—but somehow we have unlimited funds for war??"
Trump does not need congressional approval for this type of operation. Presidents, including Democratic presidents, have launched lethal attacks regularly against individuals. President Barack Obama killed an American citizen under this "kill list" policy. If Obama can vaporize an American citizen without even a criminal charge, Trump can capture a foreign citizen with a pending criminal indictment without prior congressional approval.
The United States Captures Nicolás Maduro and his Wife
http://jonathanturley.org/2026/01/03/the-united-states-captures-nicolas-maduro-and-his-wife/
AG Pam Bondi Lists Charges Against Maduro As Dems Fume (Jonathan Turley With the Reality Check)
http://twitchy.com/dougp/2026/01/03/ag-pam-bondi-lists-charges-against-maduro-as-dems-fume-jonathan-turley-with-the-reality-check-n2423487

The essential American soul is hard, isolate, stoic, and a killer. It has never yet melted. ~ D.H. Lawrence