Secretary of State Marco Rubio stood firm on the Trump administration's strategy to engage with elements of Nicolás Maduro's ousted regime in Venezuela, facing tough questions from Democrats regarding the delay in setting an electoral timetable. During a session with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Rubio stressed the importance of stabilizing Venezuela to ensure the participation of opposition parties in future elections.

“You can have elections, you have elections all day, but if the opposition has no access to the media, if opposition candidates are routinely dismissed and unable to be on the ballot because of the government, those aren't free and fair elections,” Rubio articulated. He highlighted the administration's vision of a democratic, prosperous, and friendly Venezuela, but cautioned that achieving such a state is not imminent.

While Rubio has been a proponent of elections, he did not provide a specific timeline, suggesting that a democratic vote could be a distant prospect. This stance comes amid internal debates within the administration, with some officials questioning the immediate need for elections, as reported by POLITICO.

In response to pointed inquiries from Democratic senators, Rubio justified the collaboration with acting Venezuelan leader Delcy Rodríguez, describing it as a pragmatic step given the current power dynamics in Venezuela. “The elements of control in that country — the people with the guns, the people that control the guns, and the institutions of government there — are in the hands of this regime,” Rubio explained, indicating a strategic approach to transition.

Rubio refrained from commenting extensively on recent statements by Rodríguez, emphasizing a focus on actions over rhetoric. He noted improved cooperation between Venezuelan authorities and the U.S. following the January 3 operation that resulted in Maduro's capture.

The hearing marked Rubio's first public discussion with lawmakers since the onset of U.S. military actions in Venezuela, where Democrats criticized the administration for not being transparent about the operations. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) underscored the necessity of consulting with Congress, framing it as essential, not optional.

Concerns about the delay in elections were shared by Democrats and Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.), highlighting fears of Rodríguez and Maduro's loyalists consolidating power. Rubio acknowledged these concerns and mentioned an upcoming meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, signaling ongoing efforts to support the opposition.

Rubio also mentioned plans to reopen the U.S. embassy in Caracas, which he believes will enhance direct engagement and monitoring in Venezuela. “Another thing is to have someone on the ground on a daily basis that's following these events, is talking to civil society, but also engaging with interim authorities,” Rubio concluded, outlining steps towards a more stable and democratic governance in Venezuela.