Venezuela is facing a consequential election as President Nicolas Maduro seeks a third term against opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. Maduro is trailing by nearly 40 points as voters express exhaustion over the country’s economic crisis and political repression. Critics question whether Maduro will accept defeat if he loses. The election is set for July 28, with pre-election polls showing Gonzalez in the lead. Maduro’s unpopularity stems from economic crises, corruption, and sanctions. More than 7.7 million people have left Venezuela since 2014. The opposition aims to improve relations with the West and bring Maduro’s reign to an end. The government has barred popular opposition figures from running, leading to accusations of unfairness. While Venezuela’s elections are not considered fair, they are still partially free. There is concern over what may happen if Maduro loses, with fears of him refusing to step down. Western countries, particularly the US, have criticized Maduro’s actions. The election is being closely watched, with uncertainty over the outcome and the potential implications for Venezuela’s political future.
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