Congress Divided on President’s Authority to Bomb Drug Boats

Debate is intensifying among members of Congress regarding President Donald Trump’s authority to conduct military strikes against alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific. In a recent inquiry, eleven local representatives from Southern California were asked whether the President has the legal right to undertake such actions without congressional approval. The responses varied significantly, reflecting a spectrum of political opinions.

While some representatives opted not to respond or provided vague statements, others expressed firm positions on the matter. The office of Democratic Representative Luz Rivas, representing the 29th Congressional District in the San Fernando Valley, did not offer any commentary. Similarly, Rep. George Whitesides from Santa Clarita emphasized the need for a comprehensive briefing before making any determinations, stating, “As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I take my oversight responsibility very seriously.”

Rep. Derek Tran, also a member of the Armed Services Committee, echoed this sentiment, focusing on his duty to review military intelligence. In contrast, Representative Jay Obernolte from the 23rd District declined to comment, indicating a neutral stance on the contentious issue.

Some representatives were more vocal about their views. Rep. Ted Lieu, a Democrat from the South Bay, criticized the military strikes, asserting that they likely violate the Law of Armed Conflict. He highlighted the lack of oversight hearings or briefings due to House Republicans being on vacation during a government shutdown, saying, “We have had no oversight hearings or briefings and really have no relevant details of these strikes to make a concrete determination of whether they are unlawful.”

On the other side of the aisle, Rep. Young Kim from the 40th District defended the President’s actions, stating, “The president has authority to take limited actions to protect the national security of the United States.” She argued that the designation of certain drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations justifies the President’s military interventions.

Representatives from both parties acknowledged the gravity of the drug crisis in America. Rep. Ken Calvert from Riverside County noted the staggering toll of drug-related deaths, citing that nearly half a million Americans have died from drugs imported by international cartels in the past five years. He expressed support for the administration’s efforts to combat the problem, saying, “That is why I support the administration’s ongoing efforts to eliminate and reduce the cartels’ capability to force this deadly poison into our communities.”

In stark contrast, Rep. Mark Takano emphasized the necessity of congressional approval for military action, asserting, “President Trump is carrying out an illegal war that Congress never authorized.” Similarly, Rep. Norma Torres questioned the efficacy of the strikes, suggesting that true leadership involves collaboration with allies and lawful methods to dismantle criminal networks.

Adding to the debate, Rep. Dave Min of Orange County criticized the President’s approach, stating, “Donald Trump is violating the law to try to look like he’s tough on crime.” He underscored the importance of due process, arguing that the government must substantiate claims in court before taking punitive actions against individuals.

Finally, Rep. Laura Friedman raised a fundamental ethical issue, stating, “Smuggling drugs into the United States is a vile crime that has had massive impacts on our communities, but it is not punishable by death without trial.” Her remarks highlight the ongoing debate over the balance between national security and legal rights.

As Congress grapples with these complex issues, the positions of its members reveal a significant divide on the appropriate response to drug trafficking and the extent of presidential military authority. This discussion is likely to continue as representatives seek to navigate the intersection of law, ethics, and national security.