Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, in power since 2013, is running for a third term with confidence despite strong support for his opponent, Edmundo González. Maduro, a former bus driver and protege of the late Hugo Chavez, is promising peace and growth amid an economic collapse that has caused 82% of Venezuelans to live in poverty. The country’s economy heavily relies on oil income, which has been affected by mismanagement, falling prices, and U.S. sanctions.
Maduro has been accused of being a dictator who persecutes political opponents and unfairly blocks opposition candidates from elections. He denies these charges and vows to lead Venezuela into an era of prosperity where the economy is no longer reliant on oil. Despite the opposition and international criticism, Maduro remains confident in his electoral chances, even mocking election results that show him winning by a landslide.
Campaigning with his only son by his side, Maduro holds rallies and touts his favorite beverage, a green juice made from healthy ingredients. These campaign events feature slogans urging people to vote for Maduro and posters of his face lining the streets of Caracas. Despite the challenges facing Venezuela, Maduro remains committed to leading the country forward and securing another term as president.
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