Story perspectives

South Carolina GOP Backs Controversial Venezuela Strike Amid Protests

1/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 3, 2026, South Carolina's Republican delegation backed a U.S. strike in Venezuela, leading to Nicolás Maduro and his wife's capture.
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) praised the operation as protective, while some Republicans questioned its legality.
A Quinnipiac poll found 75% of Americans opposed military action against Venezuela.
Democrats criticized the strike as unconstitutional and lacking a clear post-strike plan.
Protests against the action are planned in South Carolina.

History

Historical Context

In December 1989, the U.S. invaded Panama under Operation Just Cause to depose General Manuel Noriega, who had become a liability due to his drug trafficking and authoritarian rule. This intervention, supported by 79% of Americans, marked a shift from Cold War-era policies and raised significant legal and ethical questions about U.S. military actions in Latin America, echoing contemporary tensions with Venezuela.

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Story summary

On January 3, 2026, South Carolina's Republican delegation backed a U.S. strike in Venezuela, leading to Nicolás Maduro and his wife's capture.
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) praised the operation as protective, while some Republicans questioned its legality.
A Quinnipiac poll found 75% of Americans opposed military action against Venezuela.
Democrats criticized the strike as unconstitutional and lacking a clear post-strike plan.
Protests against the action are planned in South Carolina.

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