Lance Gooden, a U.S. Congressman who has secured multiple election victories since 2018, posted a series of tweets on January 3, 2026, expressing support for the U.S. administration’s actions regarding Venezuela and criticism of Democratic responses.
In his first post at 10:36 UTC, Gooden wrote: “Peace through strength. Thank you @POTUS https://t.co/URArb49u5y”.
Later that day at 13:15 UTC, he addressed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and former President Donald Trump’s policies: “Nicolás Maduro is a narcoterrorist whose regime has blood on its hands, including American lives.
President @realDonaldTrump acted decisively and effectively to confront the threat.
Peace through strength works. America is safer as a result, and Venezuela is closer to freedom! https://t.co/YiJI9g21Wq“.
At 13:36 UTC, Gooden criticized Democratic lawmakers’ reactions to events in Venezuela: “Today, Democrats will claim @POTUS’ decisive action in Venezuela violated international law.
Yet, when Nicolás Maduro STOLE an election, they remained silent.
In fact, Democrats like AOC are on record REFUSING to denounce Maduro’s terrorist regime. https://t.co/AnWOHSS4zm“.
Gooden’s remarks come amid ongoing debates over U.S. foreign policy toward Venezuela and internal political divisions about how best to address the Maduro government’s actions. Since first being elected in 2018—defeating Dan Wood with 62.3% of the vote—Gooden has maintained his seat by winning subsequent elections against Carolyn Salter in 2020 (62%), Tartisha Hill in 2022 (64%), and Ruth Torres in 2024 (64.1%).
