Diaz-Balart: We Must Do All That We Can to Ensure Election Results Are Respected

WASHINGTON —Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) released the following statement regarding yesterday's Venezuelan elections.

"Yesterday, Venezuelans went to the polls en masse to soundly reject the oppression, corruption and mounting failures of the Maduro regime. Today, hopes are high that the people of Venezuela have an opportunity to chart a new course toward prosperity and freedom.

"Following reports of election irregularities, intimidation, arrests of opposition leaders, and vast media censorship, the Obama administration must increase pressure on the Maduro regime and impose sanctions on those involved in human rights abuses. Although the leadership of the National Assembly is changing, the Maduro regime is still in power. Those who were involved in the assassination of Luis Manuel Diaz, and those who attempted to silence and intimidate opposition leaders must be held accountable. We must do all that we can to ensure that the results of yesterday's elections are respected, and that the Maduro regime does not undermine the legislature's authority.

"Despite obstacles imposed by the Maduro regime and his thugs, the Venezuelan people courageously mandated change. I commend the people of Venezuela for rejecting the Chavez-Maduro legacy that has plagued them for far too long. I look forward to standing with them as they begin the process of building a brighter future for themselves and their children."

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