CNN Anchor Challenges Tom Cotton on Legality of Trump's Boat Strikes: 'When Will You Take Action?'

CNN host John Berman engaged in a heated exchange with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), the chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, regarding whether Congress has legally authorized President Donald Trump to target suspected drug-smuggling vessels near Venezuela.

The Trump administration has reportedly killed more than 80 people in these strikes, prompting widespread criticism for targeting survivors in so-called double-tap attacks, which many consider potential war crimes.

Berman asked Cotton, If these are terrorists, when did Congress authorize the use of force against them?

Cotton responded, John, your question misunderstands the situation. Its not like asking whether Barack Obama could legally drone an American citizen, as happened with Anwar al-Awlaki. These are entirely different circumstances.

Berman countered, Thats why I asked when Congress approved the use of military force. There was authorization against terrorists, but when did such authorization extend to suspected drug traffickers off Venezuelas coast?

Cotton argued, The president has inherent powers as commander-in-chief to defend the nation using the armed forces against foreign terrorist organizations. Congress has laws allowing the president to designate foreign terrorist groups.

He added, Thats what hes applying to these Venezuelan cartels, which are closely tied to the Maduro regime.

Berman pressed, The administration now says these groups are non-state actors, not directly connected to Maduros government. Analysts argue they dont meet the statutory definition of terrorists under U.S. law.

Cotton maintained, Not all Latin American cartels qualify as foreign terrorists. Yet their actions have killed more Americans than Al-Qaeda or ISIS in some cases. This threat demands serious attention, just as we treat terrorism worldwide. Arkansans whove lost loved ones to drugs would likely agree.

Berman insisted, Then when will Congress vote on authorizing military force if this threat is equivalent to foreign terrorism?

Cotton concluded, The president has the necessary legal authority as commander-in-chief. If Democrats oppose, they can propose amendments during defense spending debates, but until they succeed, the president is empowered to act against these drug traffickers.

Author: Logan Reeves