Oakland, CA - Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) released the following statement:

"The President launched a war last night without the consent of Congress. That is unconstitutional and illegal.

Three weeks ago, Congressman Jim McGovern brought a War Powers resolution to the House floor to prevent exactly this. It failed 211 to 213. Two votes. I voted for the resolution, which would have directed President Trump to cease hostilities in Venezuela, because I knew this moment was coming. Last night, the United States bombed a sovereign nation and seized its president to stand trial in New York. This is illegal under the Constitution.

"The administration claims this is about drugs. On December 17, the President said on camera that he wants Venezuela's oil back. His words: 'They took our oil rights. We want it back.' This is a war being sold to the American people under false pretenses.

"Almost exactly thirty-six years ago, the U.S. invaded Panama and arrested Manuel Noriega. 24,000 U.S. troops were sent to Panama. Same 'justification.' Same playbook. The UN General Assembly condemned U.S. invasion as a violation of international law. Hundreds of civilians died. We learned nothing. Now the U.S. is committing the same mistakes, invading a nation of 30 million people.

"This administration tells Americans there is no money for housing. No money for health care. No money to feed hungry children. But there is always money for war. Congress must reassert its Constitutional power to declare war and reign in this Administration. We must use every tool to hold this President accountable and to defend the principle that in the U.S., we do not let one man choose war."

###