Maria Corina Machado Surges Ahead in Venezuela's Presidential Primary, Aiming to Oust Maduro

María Corina Machado has taken a significant early lead in the Venezuelan opposition's presidential primary, with about 93% of the first 601,110 ballots counted going to her. Machado, a former legislator, claimed victory and aims to end Nicolás Maduro's crisis-ridden presidency. Despite the fractured opposition working together for the primary, the administration has already barred Machado from running for office. The primary saw enthusiastic voter turnout, but its outcome may prove futile as Maduro seeks to extend his presidency until 2030.