Constitution in the Headlines: Venezuela and the War Powers Resolution  

When the United States used military force in Venezuela in January 2026 to capture President Nicolás Maduro, it reignited a fundamental constitutional debate: who has the authority to authorize military action—the president or Congress?

In the latest edition of Constitution in the Headlines, we examine whether the War Powers Resolution applies to U.S. military actions in Venezuela and how the Constitution divides war powers between the branches of government.

Students will explore the Declare War Clause, the president’s commander-in-chief authority, and competing scholarly perspectives from Michael Ramsey and Steve Vladeck on when presidential use of force may—or may not—violate the Constitution.

What's included:

• Headline story examining U.S. military actions in Venezuela and the constitutional debate over presidential war powers.
• Scholarly perspectives exploring how the Declare War Clause and the commander-in-chief power shape ongoing disputes between Congress and the president.
• Primary sources including the War Powers Resolution, Authorizations for the Use of Military Force, and key constitutional clauses on war powers.
• Classroom activities that prompt students to debate checks and balances, analyze constitutional text, and evaluate modern uses of military force.
• Extended learning with Interactive Constitution essays, Supreme Court cases, and additional resources on war powers and executive authority.

Help students connect breaking news to enduring constitutional principles—and grapple with one of the most important questions in American government today.

Last Chance for Summer Educator Programs

Applications for all summer programs are due January 23, with notifications shared by February 20.

Applications are open for the National Constitution Center’s 2026 summer educator programs, including the Educator Institutes and the weeklong Summer Intensive. These residential learning experiences bring together teachers from across the country to explore constitutional ideas, strengthen instructional practice, and build professional community against the inspiring backdrop of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Programs are designed for educators in grades 5–12, are free to attend, and include stipends to help offset travel and lodging costs.

Across June and July, participants will engage with constitutional scholars, legal experts, and historians; explore the National Constitution Center’s exhibitions; and visit cultural institutions and historic sites throughout Old City. Each program offers rich opportunities to deepen content knowledge and gather fresh ideas for the classroom.

From Our Partners

Annual Civil War Essay Contest

Civil War Museum of Philadelphia

The Civil War Museum of Philadelphia invites high school students to enter its annual contest exploring any aspect of the American Civil War era—from Fort Sumter to Appomattox.

Prizes include a $1,000 first-place award, a $500 honorable mention, and five finalist prizes of $100 Submissions must be received by February 16, 2026. Learn more

Civic Learning Week National Forum

iCivics

Join educators, scholars, and civic leaders in Philadelphia for the Civic Learning Week National Forum: Liberty and Learning—Civic Education at 250, taking place March 9–10, 2026.

This two-day forum will explore the essential role of civic education in sustaining constitutional democracy, fostering civil dialogue, and preparing the next generation for informed participation. Learn more

National Civics Bee

The Civic Trust, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

The National Civics Bee inspires middle school students to deepen their understanding of American democracy and civic engagement. Students tackle real-world issues, demonstrate their civics knowledge, and develop solutions that strengthen their communities.

The essay application portal is now open and closes on February 3, 2026. Learn more

You’re Invited: Events in January

🗓️ Civic Holiday: Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Monday, January 19 | All Day
In person

The National Constitution Center honors Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s lifelong dedication to justice, equality, education, and service for the greater good. Join us for educational programs and immersive performances that discuss and teach about Dr. King’s enduring legacy. Come learn, create, donate, and celebrate with us!

The museum is open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 19, 2026, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission is free.

🗓️ Town Hall: The Lost Founder: James Wilson and the Forgotten Fight for a People's Constitution

Tuesday, January 20 | 12–1 p.m. ET
Online

Legal scholar William Ewald joins Jesse Wegman of The New York Times to discuss Wegman’s new book, The Lost Founder: James Wilson and the Forgotten Fight for a People’s Constitution, which explores the influence and legacy of forgotten founder and Supreme Court Justice James Wilson. 

🗓️ Professional Learning: Constitutional Thinking with Thin Slides

Tuesday, January 27 | 7-8 p.m. ET
Online

Educators will dive deeper into Constitutional Thinking Skills using the Thin Slides NCC protocol. Using the Landmark Supreme Court Case, Tinker v. Des Moines Independent School District (1969), educators will synthesize the opinions of the case to enhance their understanding of the First Amendment. Educators will also make connections to their teaching practice and discuss ways to implement this content into their classrooms.

🗓️ Professional Learning: Civic Virtue and the Founding

Wednesday, January 28 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. ET
Online

This session focuses on the three central principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Ryan Werenka, a member of the Center's Teacher Advisory Council, will share resources considering the themes of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for classroom use.

Connect With Us

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About the National Constitution Center’s Educational Resources 

The National Constitution Center provides K-12 curriculum, professional learning, and student programs that make constitutional education engaging and relevant. Learn more at: constitutioncenter.org/education.

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