NYT: Diosdado Cabello Plans to Position Daughter as Presidential Candidate

An investigation by The New York Times alleges that Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello is orchestrating a political strategy to position his daughter, Daniella Cabello, as a potential presidential candidate. The report suggests Cabello seeks to gain an advantage over siblings Delcy and Jorge Rodríguez, who currently hold significant power in Venezuela.

The strategy reportedly involves promoting Daniella, who serves as the Minister of Tourism. Sources cited by the newspaper believe that Daniella, aged 30, could garner more public acceptance in future elections compared to the current acting president, Delcy Rodríguez. Recent polls in Venezuela indicate a decline in Rodríguez's popularity, with projections showing her trailing significantly behind other potential candidates in hypothetical presidential matchups.

The New York Times report also highlights a shift in Diosdado Cabello's political approach following the capture of Nicolás Maduro on January 3 in Caracas. Historically aligned with the strongest faction of Chavismo, Cabello has reportedly softened his rhetoric, aiming to act as a key liaison between the Venezuelan government and Washington.

Cabello is said to maintain considerable influence over the military, police, and pro-government armed groups, solidifying his position as a key player in Venezuela's political landscape. Despite public endorsements of Delcy Rodríguez's administration by some Chavista figures, the investigation suggests underlying internal tensions regarding a potential democratic transition in Venezuela.