Caracas, July 6, 2024 (venezuelanalysis.com) – The electoral campaign for Venezuela’s July 28 presidential vote has officially begun.

The ruling Socialist Party (PSUV) and allied political forces organized rallies in 70 cities and towns across the country backing President Nicolás Maduro, who is running for a third term.

The campaign launch on Thursday was headlined by a massive mobilization that saw two separate rallies converge on Miraflores Presidential Palace in western Caracas. A caravan of thousands of motorcyclists made its way through central Avenida Bolívar before joining the crowds.

Maduro took part in an event in Zulia state before flying to the capital to join supporting crowds. In his speech, he praised the “people’s strength out on the streets” and expressed confidence in a “great victory” on July 28.

“We are winning, but let no one rest on their laurels,” the president said. “We have overcome all the hurdles so far and we are going for more transformations, towards a Venezuela of welfare and prosperity.”

Lead opposition candidate Edmundo González likewise held a “caravan,” with a big crowd and cars taking over the streets in the middle-class strongholds of eastern Caracas.

Far-right politician María Corina Machado, who is barred from running and ultimately endorsed former diplomat González, told supporters that Venezuela will “have its next president” on July 28.

“We are going to win,” she said. “There are only 24 days left in the campaign and we know what we have to do.” With González mostly attending small gatherings, Machado has led outdoor rallies throughout the country to rally the opposition vote.

Over 21 million Venezuelans are eligible to vote in the upcoming election and choose a president for the 2025-2030 period. Besides Maduro and González, there are eight other candidates on the ballot.

Luis Eduardo Martínez, running on the Democratic Action ticket, wrote on social media that the electoral campaign is an opportunity for “constructive debate” and “presenting proposals.” Benjamin Rausseo, a political newcomer, sent a video message outlining his vision for a country with “high-level management” and capable of attracting foreign investment.

Venezuela Analysis