Senate Republicans on Wednesday defeated a war powers resolution that would have limited President Donald Trump’s ability to take further military action in Venezuela. Vice President JD Vance cast the tie‑breaking vote to block the measure.
The vote ended 51‑50 after two Republican senators, Josh Hawley of Missouri and Todd Young of Indiana, reversed their earlier support and voted against the resolution.
The war powers resolution was backed by Democrats and some Republicans. It aimed to require Congress’s approval before Trump could order more military actions against Venezuela.
Trump and his allies had pushed strongly against the measure. The president criticized lawmakers who supported it, saying they should not be elected again.
Supporters of the resolution said Congress should have a say before the United States engages in more military operations abroad. But opponents argued the measure was not needed because there are no U.S. troops currently in Venezuela.
Some senators who changed their votes said they received assurances from administration officials that major future military actions would be brought to Congress first.
The failed resolution highlights ongoing debate in Washington over the balance of power between the president and Congress on military decisions. Democrats say they plan to continue pushing for limits on presidential war powers in other legislation.
The vote comes during a period of heightened U.S. involvement in Venezuela, including a recent operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.