US Secretary of State Marco Rubio took the witness stand in Miami on Tuesday (March 24th) in the criminal trial of former congressman David Rivera, who is accused of acting as an unregistered agent for Venezuela. The testimony marks a highly unusual moment for a sitting cabinet official to appear in court.
Prosecutors say Rivera lobbied U.S. officials in 2017 to ease pressure on Nicolas Maduro without disclosing that a subsidiary of Venezuela’s state oil company had paid him $20 million, violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act.
Rubio in the stands
When asked about his job, Rubio — who also serves as national security adviser — said, “Yeah, I have two jobs.”
Rubio testified about his past interactions with Rivera, a former roommate and political ally he met during his time as a U.S. senator.
Plaintiffs’ argument
Prosecutors say Rivera met with Rubio twice in 2017 and pushed for a negotiated approach to Venezuela without disclosing his financial ties.
“You’re going to hear how he wouldn’t have sat down with his old friend if he knew that David Rivera was secretly working for Venezuela,” prosecutor Roger Cruz said.
Defense rebound
Rivera pleaded not guilty, claiming his work was commercial and linked to a US-based affiliate. His lawyer, Edward Shohat, said, “David Rivera had no reason to tell Rubio about that contract.”
He added that Rivera’s meetings with Rubio were aimed at supporting the Venezuelan opposition: “Both were about working with the Venezuelan opposition.
Political and legal interests
The court highlights concerns about foreign lobbying and access to American politicians. Prosecutors say Rivera used political connections, while the defense portrays him as working against the Maduro regime.
Despite alleged efforts, the Trump administration eventually increased sanctions against Venezuela.
