Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) engaged in a heated debate with Fox News host Martha MacCallum regarding the recent developments in Venezuela. The discussion followed President Donald Trump’s assertion that he had authorized the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who faced federal drug trafficking charges in New York and pleaded not guilty.
In a striking revelation, Trump expressed his interest in Venezuela’s extensive oil reserves, indicating that he had briefed top oil executives on Maduro’s planned ouster. He proposed a future where the U.S. would financially aid oil companies to rebuild Venezuela’s energy infrastructure, stating, “A tremendous amount of money will have to be spent and the oil companies will spend it, and then they’ll get reimbursed by us or through revenue.”
During his appearance on “The Story” with MacCallum, Crow voiced concerns about U.S. involvement in Venezuelan governance. He questioned whether Americans supported the notion of the U.S. controlling and occupying Venezuela, highlighting the pitfalls of previous nation-building efforts. “Do Americans want us to be doing this? Is that in our interest?” he challenged.
MacCallum countered, likening the operation to past U.S. actions in Panama with Noriega and Libya under President Obama, framing it as a necessary step to remove Maduro from power. “Isn’t it better to remove the head, at least to start the process?” she asked.
The debate intensified when MacCallum claimed that a significant number of drug overdoses in the U.S. originated from Venezuela. Crow contested this assertion, clarifying that the primary causes of overdose deaths are fentanyl and meth, which are not primarily sourced from Venezuela. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive drug strategy rather than invasive actions against foreign leaders.
This exchange highlighted the contrasting views on U.S. foreign policy and drug issues, underscoring the complexities of global leadership and domestic concerns. As the situation in Venezuela unfolds, the dialogue reflects the ongoing debate about intervention and its implications for both countries.