Edmundo González Urrutia, a retired diplomat, is leading the polls in Venezuela’s upcoming presidential election on July 28, promising a government for all citizens, including supporters of incumbent Nicolás Maduro. Despite never having run for office, González has emerged as a strong candidate after opposition leader María Corina Machado was barred from running. With Machado’s backing, González has swiftly gained popularity among voters.

González, 74, has committed to building a prosperous, democratic, and peaceful Venezuela. “We are going to build a country where the president doesn’t insult people,” he said, emphasizing respect and inclusivity. His campaign message is clear: unity and respect for all Venezuelans, irrespective of their political affiliations. This inclusive approach aims to bridge the deep political divides that have plagued the country for years.

Maduro, who has been in power since 2013, has intensified his attacks on González, labeling him a “decrepit old man.” Despite these provocations, González remains focused on his vision of a unified Venezuela. He reassured Chavistas, frustrated with Maduro’s economic failures but wary of Machado’s anti-left stance, that his administration would not exclude anyone. “Here, nobody will be excluded. We will not view our opponent as an enemy but simply as a political adversary,” González stated.

However, concerns persist about Maduro potentially disrupting the election or refusing to accept the results. Experts argue that guarantees for Maduro and his allies, such as immunity from prosecution, might be necessary for a peaceful transition. Benjamin Gedan of the Wilson Center’s Latin America Program noted that Maduro controls key state institutions, making it possible for him to interfere with the election process.

González has stayed silent on whether Maduro would receive amnesty but expressed hope for new political scenarios between the election and the inauguration in January 2025. This period could present opportunities for negotiation and transition, despite the significant challenges ahead. Supporters remain cautiously optimistic, viewing the election as a crucial step toward rescuing Venezuela’s democracy and revitalizing its economy.