Former U.S. Official Urges Machado to Return to Venezuela as Rodríguez Consolidates Power

Analysts say Rodríguez is using economic recovery and diplomatic ties to strengthen her position ahead of potential elections.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A dynamic, abstract painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and brushstrokes in vibrant colors, representing the turbulent political situation in Venezuela.As Venezuela's political landscape remains in flux, the government's consolidation of power threatens to undermine the country's democratic future.Today in Miami

A former U.S. State Department official is warning that Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado risks losing political ground as interim President Delcy Rodríguez strengthens her position, arguing that Machado's absence from the country is allowing the government to consolidate power. Analysts say Rodríguez is using improved economic conditions and diplomatic alignment with Washington to bolster her standing ahead of eventual elections, which she may seek to delay.

Why it matters

The political dynamics in Venezuela remain fluid, with Rodríguez consolidating power as the opposition leader Machado remains abroad. This could have significant implications for the country's political future, including the timing and fairness of any future elections.

The details

Economist Asdrúbal Oliveros estimates Venezuela's economy could grow by 12% this year, driven by higher oil prices and the easing of U.S. sanctions. Oil production has surpassed 1 million barrels per day and is expected to continue rising through partnerships with international energy companies. Rodríguez is reportedly looking to delay elections, a move that could allow her to increase popularity while stabilizing key sectors. Machado has remained active internationally, focusing on mobilizing support among the diaspora and foreign allies.

  • In January, an operation led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro and Rodríguez's rise to power.
  • In March, Machado traveled to Chile to attend the inauguration of President José Antonio Kast.
  • Machado has an upcoming stop in Madrid on April 18 for a mass event with the Venezuelan diaspora.

The players

Delcy Rodríguez

The interim President of Venezuela who is consolidating power and looking to delay elections.

María Corina Machado

The Venezuelan opposition leader who has remained active internationally while outside the country.

Brian Naranjo

A former U.S. State Department official who served in Venezuela and is warning about Rodríguez's consolidation of power.

Asdrúbal Oliveros

An economist who estimates Venezuela's economy could grow by 12% this year.

John Polga-Hecimovich

A professor at the U.S. Naval Academy who says Rodríguez is betting that economic recovery will ease demands for elections.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Every day that María Corina Machado is outside the country is a day that Delcy Rodríguez can consolidate and strengthen herself to stay in power. This is why I really think it's imperative that Machado get back to Venezuela as quickly as possible.”

— Brian Naranjo, Former U.S. State Department official

“Delcy Rodríguez won't leave if she's not forced to do so. She never believed in elections and is unlikely to change course without sustained pressure.”

— John Polga-Hecimovich, Professor, U.S. Naval Academy

What’s next

Machado is weighing a possible return to Venezuela, where she could face increased pressure from Rodríguez's consolidation of power. The timing and fairness of any future elections in Venezuela will be closely watched by the international community.

The takeaway

The political dynamics in Venezuela remain fluid, with the interim president Delcy Rodríguez leveraging economic recovery and diplomatic ties to strengthen her position, potentially at the expense of fair and timely elections. This highlights the ongoing challenges facing the country's democratic institutions.