As polls closed in Venezuela, Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate and current Vice President of the United States, said the country "stands with Venezuela" and called for the respect of the election's results.
Venezuelans are choosing between 10 candidates for the 2025–2031 term, although the race is largely between two: the coalition of opposition parties represented by Edmundo González Urrutia and Nicolás Maduro, the current leader of Chavismo, which has governed Venezuela for the last 25 years.
Kamala Harris about Venezuela
"The United States stands with the people of Venezuela who expressed their voice in today's historic presidential election. The will of the Venezuelan people must be respected. Despite the many challenges, we will continue to work toward a more democratic, prosperous, and secure future for the people of Venezuela," Harris declared on social media.
This statement from Harris came at a pivotal moment, as the Venezuelan presidential election unfolded amid widespread political tensions and economic challenges.
The United States stands with the people of Venezuela who expressed their voice in today’s historic presidential election. The will of the Venezuelan people must be respected. Despite the many challenges, we will continue to work toward a more democratic, prosperous, and secure…
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) July 28, 2024
Early on Sunday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken echoed similar sentiments, urging respect for the democratic process in Venezuela. Blinken emphasized the critical nature of these elections, stating, "These elections are a crucial event at a critical time, given the severe political, economic, and humanitarian crises facing the country."
The Biden administration has maintained a firm stance on promoting democracy and human rights in Venezuela. This election is seen as a critical juncture for the country, which has been grappling with years of political instability, economic decline, and social unrest. In the days leading up to the election, the White House issued warnings against any acts of political repression or violence, expressing hope that the election results would reflect the true will and aspirations of the Venezuelan people for a more democratic, stable, and prosperous future.
Brian Nichols, the top U.S. diplomat for Latin America, also spoke out on Sunday about the Venezuelan elections. "Today, the world watches as Venezuelans go to the polls to exercise their right to vote. We support the Venezuelan people and back the aspirations of those who want to participate in the democratic process and choose their leader," Nichols stated.
A complex relationship
The relationship between the Biden administration and Venezuela has been marked by a complex interplay of diplomatic pressures and support for democratic forces within the country. Both the Donald Trump and Biden administrations have imposed sanctions on key figures in the Venezuelan government while offering support to opposition leaders and humanitarian aid to the Venezuelan people.
The Venezuelan elections have not been without controversy. Reports of falsified exit polls by the ruling party circulated on social media, further complicating the already tense atmosphere. Despite these challenges, the international community, led by voices like Harris and Blinken, continues to advocate for a transparent and fair electoral process.
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