Idaho's elected leaders in line with Venezuela action, but what do citizens say?

Not surprisingly, elected leaders in Republican strongholds Idaho and Montana quickly came out in strong support of President's Donald Trump's military action taken in Venezuela to capture Nicolás Maduro. 

Here's what some of them said:

"For decades, the corrupt leadership of Nicolas Maduro has endangered American security and destabilized the Western Hemisphere. Maduro’s governing in Venezuela ushered in an era wrought with drug trafficking, narco-terrorism, and the erosion of democracy. His arrest and indictment are an important step toward accountability and upholding the rule of law.

"I applaud President Trump, his administration, and the courageous men and women who carried out this incredible operation. Through their heroic efforts, the United States is working to implement justice and offer hope for the future of Venezuela." —  Gov. Brad Little

'The arrest and indictment of Nicolas Maduro is welcome news. For years, Maduro’s leadership perpetuated violence, corruption and drug trafficking that harmed the Venezuelan people. The influx of illegal drugs from Venezuela further posed serious threats to the American people. I commend the Trump Administration and the brave men and women who carried out this successful operation to bring Maduro to the United States to face justice for his crimes. This marks a critical step toward restoring democracy and stability in the region." — U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo

"Nicolas Maduro is a narco-terrorist authoritarian leader responsible for the deaths of countless Americans. He has faced charges in the United States since 2020 and has clung to power through sham elections not recognized by much of the civilized world. At his direction, illicit drugs and violent cartel members have poured into our country, devastating communities and families. I commend President Trump’s bold leadership to protect American lives and our military for their bravery, precision, and professionalism. At this time, I pray for the Venezuelan people hungry for freedom. — U.S. Rep. Russ Fulcher.

Our neighbors in Montana said this:

“America should not be viewed as conquerer, but rather as a liberator of freedom for the (Venezuelan) people. With the help of the United States, I am confident they will now be able to use their resources to build a better and more prosperous future.” —  U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke 

“Maduro was an illegitimate dictator and narco-terror kingpin with American blood on his hands. The American people and the Western hemisphere are safer as a result of this operation."  —  U.S. Sen. Tim Sheehy.

Of course, others disagree. 

For instance, U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda, Hawaii, said: “At a time when Americans can’t afford rent, healthcare, or groceries, the Trump administration found time and money for regime change in Venezuela, risking a war that Americans don’t want. Before we spend another dollar on this reckless conflict, the American people deserve answers, including what this administration’s exit strategy is. Americans wanted help and hope in 2026, not another war.”

As we write this, others are gathering in Coeur d'Alene to protest this military action, which was a huge success and removed an illegitimate dictator of a country that has been the source of illegal drugs coming into the U.S. And yes, Venezuela has vast petroleum reserves, along with gold and other minerals. And no doubt, Trump is sending a message to China and Russia with this move.

We point this out because we want to hear from you, our readers, on this issue.  Send us your name, town and comments, in less than 275 words, and we'll do our best to publish them soon. 

What do Idahoans think? Let us know.