Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Machado expressed her ambitions to become the country’s first female president during an exclusive interview with Fox News. This interview, aired on Friday, followed her controversial decision to present her Nobel Peace Prize medal to former President Donald Trump on Thursday, an act she described as a tribute to the people of Venezuela.
In her remarks, Machado emphasized her belief that she could secure the presidency, stating, “I want to serve my country where I am more useful.” She added, “I believe I will be elected when the right time comes as president of Venezuela, the first woman president of Venezuela!” Her assertion reflects her determination to lead the nation following the political turmoil under President Nicolás Maduro.
Machado’s decision to give up the Nobel Peace Prize has drawn mixed reactions. She justified her actions by asserting, “He deserves it,” in reference to Trump. The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Machado for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela,” as acknowledged by the Norwegian Nobel Committee. However, her alignment with right-leaning governments and support for stringent U.S. sanctions on Venezuela have sparked scrutiny and debate.
During the interview, Rachel Campos-Duffy of Fox News inquired if Machado remained resolute in her presidential aspirations. Machado responded affirmatively, highlighting the risks she and her family have faced in pursuit of her political goals. She insisted that her commitment to her country is unwavering despite the challenges.
While Machado has garnered support from some Republican figures as a potential successor to Maduro, Trump himself has voiced skepticism. He remarked that Machado lacks the “respect” of the Venezuelan people and dismissed her as a viable candidate. Reports indicate that Trump may hold a grudge against her for accepting the Nobel Peace Prize, which he had sought for himself. A White House insider suggested that Machado would have been “president of Venezuela today” had she not accepted the award and instead supported Trump.
The political landscape in Venezuela remains fragile, with ongoing tensions surrounding Maduro’s government. Machado’s vocal criticism of the current administration and her promotion of unverified claims, including allegations of Hamas operating within Venezuela, have raised further questions about her credibility among some observers.
As Venezuela navigates its tumultuous political climate, Machado’s ambitions could either galvanize support for change or deepen the divisions within the opposition. Her recent actions and statements will likely continue to attract significant attention as she pursues her goal of leadership in a country desperate for stability and democratic governance.
