Richardson Area Democrats (RAD) invited Mission: Texas to moderate a special panel of Democratic veterans and military civilians running for office across North Texas for an urgent, in-depth conversation about Venezuela, war powers, and the future of American democracy.

Former service members and current candidates from Congress to the Texas House and Senate break down what’s happening, what it means for U.S. foreign policy, why congressional authorization matters, and how unchecked executive power puts service members, families, and global stability at risk — and what voters can do right now to change the trajectory. 

In this episode, we cover:

• What led to U.S. military action in Venezuela and why it matters
• Why Congress has a constitutional role in declaring war
• How modern foreign policy decisions affect everyday Americans
• The real risks to service members and their families
• What’s at stake for global stability, democracy, and the 2026 midterms
• How voters can take action locally to protect democratic norms

We were joined by: 

Kevin Burge - CD 24

Keenen Colbert - TX SD2

Milah Flores - CD17

Zach Herbert - TX HD112

Evan Hunt - CD3

Ernest Lineberger - CD26

William Marks - CD25

Nathan Smith - Tarrant County District Clerk 

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