From Caracas to Congress: Venezuela’s Impact on American Power Politics

This week on Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina start the conversation far from Texas, with a global crisis that’s quickly becoming a domestic political test: the invasion of Venezuela.

The discussion examines what the situation in Venezuela means for U.S. foreign policy, the international response, and how the conflict is already shaping political debate at home. The episode looks at the economic and humanitarian stakes, along with the way foreign crises can sharpen partisan messaging during an election year.

Former President Donald Trump’s reaction to the invasion is part of the conversation, as is the question facing Democrats in power: how to respond politically and diplomatically without overreaching. The episode explores the limits of executive authority, the role of Congress, and the political risks on both sides of the aisle.

Congressional updates include a look at Trump’s recent speech at the Kennedy Center and what it reveals about his political strategy and cultural messaging.

The episode also takes up Sen. Mark Kelly’s proposal to reduce pension benefits, weighing fiscal responsibility against political risk for a senator facing a closely divided electorate.

Back in Texas, Andrew White’s decision to leave the governor’s race reshapes the Democratic field, while Rep. James Talarico’s latest fundraising numbers and new campaign ad offer an early look at how candidates are positioning themselves moving forward.