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Venezuelan Opposition Rallying Behind Presidential Candidate Replacement

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who has been banned from running for office, meets with supporters as she campaigns for the opposition's candidate in Maracaibo, Venezuela, Friday, May 3, 2024.

In the small town of Sabana de Mendoza, Venezuelan opposition figure María Corina Machado continues her campaign efforts despite being barred from the upcoming election on July 28. Machado, known for her charisma and popularity, has been rallying support for Edmundo González Urrutia, the chosen candidate of the chief opposition coalition.

Although many supporters are unfamiliar with González, they express a desire for change and hope that a new leader will bring improvements for their community. González, a former diplomat with a background in international relations, is set to launch his campaign soon and is expected to rely on various opposition leaders as surrogates.

Machado's role as a surrogate for González has helped to unify the fractured opposition and has drawn attention from the ruling party. Despite facing challenges and rival rallies, Machado remains determined to mobilize voters and secure support for González.

The upcoming election will feature González as the opposition candidate, while President Nicolás Maduro seeks a third term. Maduro's presidency has been marked by a severe social, political, and economic crisis, leading to widespread poverty and mass emigration from Venezuela.

González, a former diplomat, aims to bring change and improvements to Venezuela.
Machado rallies support for opposition candidate González in upcoming election.
Residents in Sabana de Mendoza express mixed views on González's candidacy.

As the campaign unfolds, residents in Sabana de Mendoza express mixed views on the opposition candidate. While some believe González offers hope for economic recovery and job creation, others remain skeptical and undecided about their vote.

With the election approaching, the political landscape in Venezuela remains tense and uncertain. Machado's efforts to rally support for González underscore the ongoing struggle for change and the challenges facing the opposition in their bid to unseat Maduro.

For more updates on Latin America, visit AP's Latin America coverage.

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