Maria Corina Machado would likely win if Venezuela held free elections

Opposition leaders and observers say Maria Corina Machado would win a free, fair Venezuelan election by a large margin; however, Maduro's allies remain in control and Delcy Rodríguez has been sworn in as interim president.

Opposition figures and international observers say Maria Corina Machado would win a free and fair Venezuelan election by a wide margin. They point to opposition vote totals from the 2024 cycle and party primaries as evidence of strong public backing. At the same time, officials aligned with the previous government remain in positions of power after recent detentions and a leadership change. U.S. officials have said they will engage with Delcy Rodríguez, who was sworn in as interim president. Key facts: - Opposition leaders and some observers report that Machado would win decisively in a free, fair vote. - Opposition-backed candidate Edmundo González claimed 67% of the vote in disputed 2024 printouts. - Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as interim president and officials aligned with the prior leadership continue to hold key roles. - U.S. officials say they will work with Rodríguez for now, while the opposition seeks international recognition as legitimate leadership. Summary: If a free and fair vote were held, the opposition and some experts say Machado would win decisively; however, government loyalists still control key institutions. Undetermined at this time.