A message to all patriotic citizens of Venezuela

“Juan Guaido indeed is the duly elected constitutional leader” of Venezuela, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said today. “Our task is to continue to support all those who are supporting Juan Guaido.”

Over the past 36 hours—and, indeed, for months before—President Donald J. Trump, Secretary Pompeo, and National Security Advisor John Bolton have reiterated America’s support for Interim President Guaido and the Venezuelan people in their struggle to replace socialist dictatorship with democracy. That support for a peaceful transition of power will continue.

Watch: A message to all patriotic citizens of Venezuela

Socialism in Venezuela has collapsed its economy. “Just as one example, when Chavez took power 20 years ago, Venezuela was pumping around 3.3 million barrels of oil a day,” Ambassador Bolton said this morning. “A few months ago they were down to 1.1 million.” While poverty levels multiply, the Maduro regime has denied Venezuelans badly needed food and medical aid, causing millions to flee the country.

Yesterday, the regime showed its true colors again as it met peaceful protestors with tear gas, gunfire, water cannons, and armored cars deployed as lethal weapons.

The Washington Post editorial board called out those—including some in the American media—who referred to President Guaido’s movement as a “coup attempt.” That language echoes the Maduro dictatorship’s propaganda. In reality, President Guaido was duly elevated by Venezuela’s National Assembly and has pledged to restore free and fair elections once Maduro is removed.

That isn't a coup. It's the triumph of real democracy over a violent dictatorship with no legitimate claim to power.

Outside forces must stop working to oppress the citizens of Venezuela by propping up Maduro and his thugs. If Cuba and Russia do not leave Venezuela, Secretary Pompeo says, they will face economic sanctions and other consequences.

“The coup here has been by the Cubans and the Russians.”

Something to share: President Guaido bravely leads—while Maduro hides

Video of the day: 2018 NASCAR champion pays a visit

Yesterday, President Trump welcomed 2018 NASCAR Cup Series winner Joey Logano and Team Penske to the White House. With Joey’s no. 22 race car parked on the driveway of the South Lawn, the President congratulated the 28-year old champion.

“NASCAR is not only a thrilling display of skill and power but a celebration of the American spirit,” President Trump said. “No matter who wins the race, you never forget what matters most: God, family, and country."

Photo of the Day

Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks

First Lady Melania Trump watches her bowling ball travel down the lane during a Be Best bowling event with children of Secret Service in the White House bowling alley | April 30, 2019