A former Miami congressman, David Rivera, and his associate, Esther Nuhfer, have been found guilty of failing to register as foreign agents and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Venezuela Lobbying Scheme Details

The convictions stem from a $50 million lobbying campaign orchestrated by Venezuela’s government under Nicolás Maduro during the early years of the Trump administration. The seven-week trial highlighted Miami’s role as a hub for foreign influence operations targeting U.S. policy in Latin America.

Key Testimony

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Congressman Pete Sessions testified, expressing surprise upon learning about Rivera’s contract with a U.S. affiliate of Venezuela’s state oil company, PDVSA. Judge Melissa Damian ordered Rivera to be taken into custody, citing a flight risk due to his financial resources and the potential for a lengthy prison sentence, as well as pending charges in Washington, D.C.

Other National & International News

Beyond the Rivera case, a wide range of stories unfolded across the nation and the globe.

  • King Charles III received praise for his handling of former President Trump during the US state visit.
  • Access to abortion care faced restrictions as a court blocked the mailing of mifepristone.
  • Former President Trump voiced dissatisfaction with Iran’s latest peace proposal.
  • A plane circled Fenway Park for an hour, urging the Red Sox ownership to sell the team.
  • A converted church in Pennsylvania is now a hub for Amish roots music.
  • Concerns persist regarding the financial stability of Spirit Airlines, with Trump suggesting a potential bailout.
  • A dog statue in New York, Nipper, faces an uncertain future.
  • A viral trend in Argentina sees young people identifying as animals.
  • Formula 1 driver training regimens may benefit computer users with ‘tech neck’.
  • The Democratic party is gaining traction in traditionally conservative areas like The Villages.
  • The CDC issued a warning about drug-resistant salmonella infections linked to backyard poultry.
  • New obesity medications are reshaping perspectives on holiday eating habits.
  • Investigations continue into the use of ChatGPT by a suspect in a Florida student killing case.
  • A guide to crafting the perfect mint julep for the Kentucky Derby was released.
  • ‘Scientology speedruns,’ a viral trend, prompted increased security measures by the church.
  • Mexico City’s alarming rate of sinking is visible even from space.

    • These diverse stories reflect a world grappling with political intrigue, social trends, health concerns, and cultural phenomena. The court’s decision on mifepristone, Trump’s stance on Iran, and the situation with Spirit Airlines remain ongoing developments.