Vermont Democratic Party Statement on Deployment of VT Air National Guard in Trump’s Unconstitutional Military Escalation with Venezuela

MONTPELIER, VT — December 12, 2025 — The Vermont Democratic Party is deeply appreciative for the dedicated and heroic service of the Vermont Air National Guard. Vermont’s service members represent the very best of our state. We honor their commitment, especially when they are called away from their families during the holiday season.

At the same time, we have serious concerns about President Trump’s decision to mobilize the Vermont Air National Guard as part of what appears to be a dangerous and escalating push toward military conflict with Venezuela.

Any move to initiate military action without congressional authorization is reckless and unconstitutional. Venezuela has not attacked the United States, and no president has the authority to unilaterally launch a war. The Constitution requires explicit approval from Congress before committing our service members to conflict.

“Vermonters are proud to support our Airmen in the 158th Fighter Wing, but we also understand the tremendous costs of war, to service members and families alike. It is critical that our leaders act with restraint, and in accordance with the Constitution — not rush us into yet another reckless conflict. As the holidays approach, my thoughts and prayers will be with deployed members of the 158th Fighter Wing and their families at home in Vermont,” said Vermont Democratic Party Chair Lachlan Francis.

“President Trump does not have the authority to unilaterally drag Vermonters into a foreign conflict. Deploying the Vermont Air National Guard without congressional authorization is unconstitutional, dangerous, and an abuse of power,” said Vermont Democratic Party Executive Director May Hanlon.

The Vermont Democratic Party urges the Trump administration to halt this escalation and to comply with the constitutional process that protects both our democracy and our service members.