Diaz-Balart: President’s Address at FIU Demonstrates Administration’s Commitment to Democracy in Venezuela
MIAMI – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) today joined President Donald Trump at Florida International University as he addressed the democratic and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. Diaz-Balart had just returned from a trip to the Venezuelan border with Senator Marco Rubio and United States Ambassador to the Organization of American States Carlos Trujillo, where he was able to see firsthand the work the United States is doing to help the Venezuelan people. The President's visit to Miami comes just two weeks after Vice President Michael Pence visited Iglesia Doral Jesus Worship Center to speak in support of democracy in Venezuela.
Diaz-Balart recently introduced legislation with Congressman Darren Soto to provide TPS to eligible Venezuelans residing in the United States. He also co-sponsored two bills, one that would prevent the export to the Maduro regime of riot gear, tear gas, and other devices which could be used to further repress the democratic opposition in Venezuela. The second bill he co-sponsored would require greater oversight and research into the growing Russian threat in Venezuela.
"President Trump has been a steadfast friend to the Venezuelan people, and his trip to Florida International University underscores his ongoing commitment to promoting freedom and democracy in our hemisphere. He was the first world leader, among a growing coalition, to recognize the constitutional interim President Juan Guaidó, and the Trump administration has continued its tireless efforts in working to restore democracy in Venezuela. Each day, the departure of high-ranking operatives reveals more cracks in the Maduro regime's grip on power.
"Shamelessly, Maduro has sent his military to block desperately needed humanitarian aid from reaching the sick and hungry. He has oppressed and tyrannized the Venezuelan people for far too long. Yet despite the regime's callous disregard for the Venezuelan people, the United States will continue to offer assistance. I was able to witness some of these humanitarian efforts firsthand in Cucuta yesterday, and I am proud of the work the United States, Colombia, NGOs, and other organizations and countries are doing to help. I thank the Trump administration for its resolute solidarity with the freedom-seeking people of Venezuela, and look forward to continue working with the administration and my colleagues to promote democracy and human rights in our hemisphere."