Duval Times

On August 2, 2024, Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Marco Rubio, Dick Durbin, Tim Kaine, Bill Cassidy, and Michael Bennet in presenting a resolution recognizing Edmundo González as the President-elect of Venezuela. The recent presidential elections in Venezuela have been perceived as a significant moment for the nation as Venezuelans cast their votes amid ongoing political turmoil. Despite efforts by Nicolás Maduro's regime to retain power, the electorate overwhelmingly supported Edmundo González Urrutia.

Senator Rick Scott stated: "The malicious dictator Nicolás Maduro, emboldened by the appeasement from the Biden-Harris administration, is attempting to steal another election from the people of Venezuela by responding to their calls for freedom with oppression and violence. Democracy in Venezuela is at stake and our hemisphere's security is in jeopardy. The United States cannot remain silent or complicit in Maduro's tyranny. The Venezuelan people have spoken clearly by electing Edmundo González as their legitimate leader and now the United States and all freedom-loving nations must stand with them."

Senator Marco Rubio remarked: "The desire of the Venezuelan people for freedom and democracy is admirable. The recent electoral process, which narco-dictator Maduro fraudulently claims to have won, has showcased the resilience of the Venezuelan spirit. The U.S., along with democracies worldwide, cannot legitimize Maduro nor be complicit by standing aside with an illegitimate narco-regime. It is time we recognize Edmundo González Urrutia as Venezuela’s democratically elected president."

Senator Dick Durbin added: "This resolution demonstrates across-the-board political support in the U.S. Senate for what we and much of the democratic world recognize as evident: that Edmundo González won Sunday's elections fairly and decisively. Credible election observers' meticulous compilation and transparent publication of over 80 percent of all Venezuelan election results confirm this too. The Venezuelan people have endured significant hardship in recent years and voted accordingly for change. I urge respect for voters' choice and ensure a peaceful democratic transfer of power."

Senator Tim Kaine commented: "Elections matter and the will of the Venezuelan people must be respected. The election results are clear: Edmundo González Urrutia has secured a decisive victory and is Venezuela’s legitimate president-elect. Efforts led by opposition figure María Corina Machado were crucial in ensuring transparency during these elections. Democracies around the world are uniting in support of the Venezuelan people while condemning Maduro’s blatant fraudulent attempt to overturn results. A peaceful transition to duly elected leadership is imperative."

Senator Bill Cassidy emphasized: "This is a critical moment for our hemisphere—do we allow 25 years more of tyranny just three hours away from us? Do we let Russians, Chinese Communists, and drug cartels use Venezuela as ground zero against America? We need to change course starting with recognizing President-elect Edmundo González.”

Senator Michael Bennet concluded: “Edmundo González has been democratically elected President of Venezuela. For long years, Venezuelans have sought to restore rule of law and democracy; America stands with them.”

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