Democrats rage at "unsatisfactory" Trump administration briefing on drug boat strikes

House Democrats were angered after a briefing on President Trump's strikes against alleged drug boats because lawyers were absent. Lawmakers from both parties have been demanding evidence justifying these strikes and the targets' identities. Senate Democrats were completely excluded from a separate briefing on Wednesday, causing frustration. House Armed Services Committee members were briefed by Pentagon and Joint Chiefs of Staff officials, but lawyers were not present. Many questions at the briefing concerned the legal basis for the strikes, which the officials could not answer without legal counsel. Congress was told a legal opinion would be released but received no specific date. Representatives expressed dissatisfaction, stating they lacked understanding of the legal justification for the strikes. Some noted that lawyers were scheduled to attend but their presence was canceled last minute. The White House accused Democrats of making false claims to distract from issues like government shutdowns and unpaid federal workers. They stated multiple bipartisan briefings have been held and that Democrats are prioritizing drug smugglers over citizens. Congress has criticized the administration for over a dozen strikes without authorization, resulting in many deaths. The administration claims these strikes target "narco-terrorists," particularly from Venezuela, but offers minimal evidence. Trump has asserted his constitutional authority to take unilateral military action against drug cartels. This has led to bipartisan accusations from Congress that the administration is conducting illegal, extrajudicial killings. Another briefing on the subject is expected to occur.