Sen. Rick Scott, Colleagues Back Venezuelan Opposition Leader María Corina Machado for Nobel Peace Prize

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Senator Rick Scott, joined by Senator Marco Rubio and Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart, María Elvira Salazar, Michael Waltz, Neal Dunn, Byron Donalds and Carlos Gimenez wrote a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee supporting Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado as a Nobel Peace Prize nominee. In the letter, the members illustrate Machado's remarkable contributions to restoring democratic governance in Venezuela, risking everything and facing endless threats to help the Venezuelan people elect a rightful leader with President-Elect Edmundo González. In stark contrast to the oppression, torture, murder, and economic deprivation at the hands of the Chavez-Maduro dictatorship, Machado's peaceful leadership has become a beacon of hope and resilience for the Venezuelan people - a true embodiment of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Read the full letter HERE or below.

Dear Members of the Norwegian Nobel Committee:

We write to you in support of the nomination of María Corina Machado for the Nobel Peace Prize.

In our work as policymakers who strive for democracy and human rights in the face of dictatorial regimes in the Western Hemisphere and beyond, we have rarely witnessed such courage, selflessness, and firm grasp of morality as we have in María Corina Machado.

She has risked everything to rally the previously flagging spirits of the Venezuelan people. They have suffered 25 years of oppression, torture, murder, and economic deprivation at the hands of the Chavez-Maduro regime who has systematically undermined democratic institutions and perpetuated a regional crisis of monumental proportions. Machado stands as a beacon of hope and resilience.

Despite enduring severe personal threats, including attempts on her life, Machado has remained steadfast in her commitment to restoring democratic governance in Venezuela. Her leadership is instrumental in mobilizing both domestic and international support for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing electoral fraud crisis. Her tireless efforts to advocate for free and fair elections and to bring attention to the human rights abuses occurring under the current regime embody the very principles that the Nobel Peace Prize seeks to honor. Machado's efforts to bring a democratic peace to Venezuela benefit her country, as well as the region and the world.

In the recent election, Machado's work has showcased her unwavering resolve and ability to inspire and rally others towards the noble cause of democracy. Her actions reflect a deep-seated belief in justice, human rights, and the rule of law-values that are foundational to the mission of the Nobel Peace Prize.

The Maduro regime's abuses and assaults on the civil society and legitimate political activity of Venezuelan citizens have caused millions to flee to other countries, while millions more have had no choice but to remain in the prison Maduro has imposed on them. The peace of the region has been greatly disturbed by Maduro's welcoming of some of the world's worst actors, including terrorists and dictators who support him.

It is our firm belief that María Corina Machado's courageous and selfless leadership, and unyielding dedication to the pursuit of peace and democratic ideals, make her a most deserving candidate for this prestigious award. Her efforts not only highlight the urgent need for international solidarity in the face of aggressive and expansive authoritarianism but also serve as a reminder of the power of individual bravery in the quest for justice.

María Corina Machado's peaceful resistance to tyrants and her ability to organize and lead a non-violent movement for democracy and human rights is exemplary. Her unwavering moral compass and commitment to democratic peace for her country and the region are an example to the world. She and the movement she created represents a stark contrast to the Maduro dictatorship and its supporters around the world who have helped him subdue, oppress and impoverish the people of Venezuela.

We hope that the Nobel Committee will recognize María Corina Machado's remarkable contributions and grant her the distinction she so rightly deserves.

Sincerely,

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