MIAMI — The criminal trial of former Congressman David Rivera is shedding light on a previously undisclosed lobbying effort by the Venezuelan government to influence U.S. policy prior to the ousting of President Nicolás Maduro.

Lobbying Contract and Key Players

A top Washington lobbyist, closely allied with President Donald Trump, testified in federal court about a $50 million contract between Maduro’s government and former Rep. David Rivera. Brian Ballard, a key witness, stated he immediately severed ties with Rivera upon learning of the agreement in 2020.

Ballard's Testimony and Concerns

Ballard testified that he initially believed he and Rivera were both working to oppose the Maduro regime. He was advising Rex Tillerson, Trump’s first Secretary of State, and used Rivera as a contact to then-Senator Marco Rubio, who had concerns about Tillerson’s views on Venezuela. Ballard expressed his outrage upon discovering the contract, blocking Rivera’s contact information after a heated exchange.

Connections to Venezuelan Billionaire

The trial also revealed connections to Venezuelan billionaire Carlos Gorrín, who allegedly funneled embezzled oil money to the country’s democratic opposition while simultaneously seeking to ease U.S. sanctions on Maduro’s government. Gorrín attempted to court power players in Trump’s Washington.

Meetings and Contracts

In 2017, Ballard, Rivera, and Gorrín flew to the Dominican Republic to meet with Venezuelan opposition leaders. Gorrín’s network, Globovision, later signed an $800,000 contract with Ballard’s firm for assistance with U.S. expansion. Ballard testified he regretted the decision after learning of Gorrín’s alleged illicit activities.

Allegations Against Rivera

Prosecutors allege that Rivera acted as a hired gun for Maduro after leaving Congress, utilizing his relationships with Rubio and other Republicans to advocate for a shift in U.S. policy towards Venezuela. Rivera, 60, maintains his innocence, claiming he worked as a business strategist for a U.S. affiliate of Venezuela’s state-run oil company, exempting him from Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) requirements.

Defense and Testimony

The defense sought a mistrial, alleging prosecutorial misconduct, but Judge Melissa Damian denied the motion. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also testified during the trial. Other figures, including Representative Pete Sessions, are on the defense witness list.

Ongoing Investigation

The trial continues to unfold, revealing a complex web of interactions between individuals close to Trump and Venezuela’s leaders. The case highlights the potential hazards of foreign influence campaigns in U.S. politics.