Ex-US Congressman Convicted of Secretly Lobbying for Venezuela

Email:online@newsofbahrain.com

Washington DC: Former US Congressman David Rivera has been convicted of illegally lobbying American officials on behalf of Venezuela, in a case highlighting concerns over covert foreign influence in US politics.

A federal jury found Rivera guilty of acting as an unregistered foreign agent and involvement in a money laundering conspiracy tied to a multimillion-dollar lobbying effort linked to Venezuela’s government.

Prosecutors said Rivera used his political connections to try to ease US pressure and sanctions on the government of Nicolás Maduro, while failing to disclose his activities as required under US law.

The case also involved a political consultant who was convicted alongside him, with evidence showing efforts to conceal the lobbying campaign through covert communications and financial arrangements.

Rivera, a former Florida lawmaker, was taken into custody after the verdict, with authorities citing concerns he could flee ahead of sentencing.

The conviction underscores increased scrutiny of undisclosed lobbying activities and enforcement of transparency laws aimed at preventing hidden foreign influence on US policymaking.