In the wake of the contested July election in Venezuela, opposition candidate Edmundo González has gone into hiding, leaving María Corina Machado to take the helm of the movement determined to oust President Nicolás Maduro. Machado, a former industrial engineer and vocal critic of the Maduro regime, has become a driving force behind a growing movement that aims to end decades of repression, corruption, and economic hardship.

Despite facing obstacles and being barred from participating in the 2023 election for 15 years, Machado's popularity has continued to surge. After winning the Unitary Platform presidential primaries with an overwhelming majority, her presence on the campaign trail, alongside the now-hidden González, has drawn thousands of enthusiastic supporters.

The July 28 election brought millions of Venezuelans to the polls, with González appearing to secure a landslide victory of 67 percent against Maduro's reported 30 percent. However, doubts were immediately cast on the transparency of the government-controlled electoral council's announcement declaring Maduro as the winner.

Independent reviews of polling place data, including by renowned media outlets such as CNN, The Washington Post, The Associated Press, and The Electoral Observation Mission, have provided evidence that supports the authenticity of the opposition's data, further reinforcing González's claim to the presidency.

Several countries, including the United States, Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay, have recognized González as the legitimate president-elect. Others, like Brazil and Mexico, have called for transparency before acknowledging Maduro's victory.

In response to mounting opposition protests and international pressure, Maduro's regime has resorted to a brutal campaign of violence and repression. Numerous opposition members and supporters have been arrested or imprisoned, with an arrest warrant now issued for González.

In an interview with Rolling Stone, Machado expressed her determination to continue fighting for a democratic transition in Venezuela. She highlighted the crucial role of international support, emphasizing that the world recognizes González as the rightful president-elect, emphasizing that his arrest warrant is a red line.

Machado also noted the broad spectrum of ideological support the opposition is receiving, ranging from left-wing politician Gabriel Boric of Chile to right-wing libertarian Javier Milei of Argentina. This diverse backing showcases the universal desire for freedom and justice in the face of an oppressive regime.

Regarding the United States' role in the crisis, Machado acknowledged that economic and social problems in Venezuela predate the Trump administration. She believes that a combination of pressure and negotiation is necessary, particularly as the regime grows increasingly weak and isolated.

Machado stressed the importance of demonstrating to Maduro that his repression and violence will have consequences. She called on the United States and the international community to increase the costs for the regime, pushing for negotiations and a peaceful transition of power.

As the political situation in Venezuela remains highly volatile, Machado's steadfast determination to fight for democracy and justice signals a resilient opposition that refuses to be silenced. With international recognition and support, the movement aims to reclaim Venezuela's institutions and protect the values of democracy for the benefit of its citizens.