What Did the U.S. Do in Venezuela? Rep. Adam Smith on Trump Administration Actions Investigation

How far did the U.S. really go to influence the political landscape in Caracas? Representative Adam Smith, the ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, has begun shedding light on what lawmakers are discovering about the Trump administration's maneuvers in Venezuela. According to NPR, Congress is currently in the process of unearthing details that weren't shared with the public at the time.

The Trump Administration Venezuela Actions Investigation Unfolds

On January 6, 2026, Rep. Adam Smith spoke with NPR's Leila Fadel about the House's ongoing inquiry. The committee is specifically focusing on the decision-making process that led to increased pressure on the Maduro regime. Smith noted that lawmakers are 'learning' the extent of these actions, suggesting that previous reports may have only scratched the surface of U.S. involvement.

Congressional Oversight and Foreign Policy Accountability

The core of the investigation lies in whether the executive branch bypassed congressional notification requirements. Smith emphasized that understanding these past actions is crucial for maintaining the balance of power. As the House Armed Services Committee continues its review, the debate over how much autonomy a president should have in covert foreign operations has been reignited in Washington.