Senator Jeff Merkley expressed disappointment after Senate Republicans blocked his bill, the Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025. This bill aimed to prevent the use of federal funds for military action in Venezuela without explicit Congressional approval. Merkley argued that Congress holds the constitutional power to declare war, criticizing the potential for unilateral action by former President Trump. The bill, co-sponsored by several other senators, also included exceptions for self-defense, counternarcotics operations, and humanitarian aid.
Read More
A federal judge in Oregon issued a temporary restraining order, blocking the Trump administration from deploying the National Guard to Portland, citing the president exceeding constitutional authority. The ruling comes amid the administration’s efforts to crack down on Democratic-led cities. The judge found that the incidents cited by the administration did not warrant the use of the National Guard. Similar efforts have also been attempted in Chicago, where the administration cited protests and unrest to justify the deployment of federal troops.
Read More
Following a federal court ruling partially invalidating President Trump’s tariffs, former Vice President Pence reiterated his stance that the president lacks the constitutional authority to unilaterally impose tariffs. Pence cited Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to levy taxes and duties. A federal court agreed, stating that the president’s invocation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to justify tariffs exceeded his authority. The administration has appealed the decision, keeping the tariffs temporarily in effect pending the appeal’s outcome.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker