Senator Mark Warner Discusses Military Action in Venezuela and Healthcare Concerns
Interview Overview
In an appearance on “Face the Nation” with Margaret Brennan on December 14, 2025, Senator Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, addressed pressing national security issues, including U.S. military actions in Venezuela and health care challenges facing Americans.
Military Action Against Venezuela
Warner’s Perspective on Military Options
Senator Warner discussed the situation in Venezuela, particularly the potential for military intervention. While acknowledging the critical issues posed by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s regime, he emphasized the need for clear goals from the Biden administration regarding U.S. involvement. Warner stated, “We’ve got troops potentially in harm’s way… The President needs to make the case if he’s going to try to put boots on the ground in Venezuela.”
Concerns About Recent Strikes
Warner raised concerns about recent military strikes targeting alleged drug boats. Although some Democrats labeled these strikes as war crimes, he refrained from making such an accusation, citing the need for a thorough understanding of the legal justification behind the operations. He urged the release of a video related to a double tap strike on September 2, describing it as “chilling” and expressing the importance of transparency regarding military actions.
Calls for Justification and Strategy
Warner critiqued President Trump for not providing clear objectives or rationales for military actions. He noted, “This has not been an overnight buildup. This buildup of force has been months.” He reiterated that the President owed the public an explanation regarding the goals of U.S. military engagement in the region.
U.S. Troops in Syria
Response to Recent Combat Deaths
Following the recent deaths of three American servstart members in Syria due to what appears to be an insider attack, Warner expressed condolences and acknowledged the important role U.S. forces play in the region. He emphasized the need for a clear strategy concerning the presence of nearly 1,000 troops in Syria, asserting that withdrawing without a solid plan would be a mistake.
Addressing Domestic Health Care Challenges
Warner Discusses Health Care Legislation
Shifting focus to domestic issues, Warner addressed upcoming health care reforms proposed by Senator Bill Cassidy. He highlighted the immediate crisis affecting health insurance enrollment and criticized the idea of retroactive fixes for individuals who may miss deadlines. Warner argued, “Fix it now, so people don’t go into Christmas thinking they’re going to not know if they’ll be able to afford healthcare.”
Skepticism About Proposed Solutions
The Senator expressed skepticism about Cassidy’s proposal for a start-time payment to assist with rising insurance costs, arguing that it would not adequately address the ongoing challenges individuals face with skyrocketing health premiums. Warner insisted that the existing subsidies must be extended to provide immediate relief.
Conclusion
Senator Mark Warner’s appearance on “Face the Nation” highlighted key issues ranging from military strategy in Venezuela to the urgent need for health care reforms. His call for transparency and accountability from the administration reflects a broader concern among lawmakers regarding the complexities of American military engagement and the domestic health care landscape.
With significant decisions ahead, Warner emphasized the necessity for clear communication from leadership to ensure the safety and well-being of American citizens.