Rick Scott calls for reviewing TPS for Venezuelans and increasing the reward for Maduro

Republican Senator Rick Scott spoke in an interview about Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans in the United States and his intention to increase the reward for the capture of Nicolás Maduro. He also criticized the license granted to Chevron by Joe Biden’s administration and assured that if Donald Trump returns to the presidency, this decision will be reversed.

“Case-by-case” Review of TPS

Scott explained that TPS, which protects about 350,000 Venezuelans in the U.S., should be reviewed individually. According to him, those without a criminal record who cannot return to their country for security reasons should be allowed to stay in the United States.

“People who are here simply because they cannot return, because it is not safe for them, should have the opportunity to stay,” Scott said.

However, he emphasized that those with a criminal history or connections to criminal groups like Tren de Aragua should not receive this protection.

“This should be studied case by case to differentiate good people from bad ones,” he added.

Increase in the Reward for Maduro

The senator also announced that he is working on a bill to increase the reward for Nicolás Maduro to $100 million. According to him, this would help remove Maduro from power and advance the fight for democracy in Venezuela.

“I am trying to raise it to $100 million. That way, we could end Maduro’s rule,” he stated.

U.S. Relationship with Venezuela

Scott clarified that the recent meeting between a U.S. envoy and Maduro does not signify a rapprochement with the regime but rather an effort to free American citizens detained in Venezuela.

“It was a trip to bring American hostages home and to ensure that criminals can return to Venezuela instead of staying in the United States,” he explained.

He also criticized the Biden administration’s decision to renew Chevron’s license to operate in Venezuela, asserting that if Trump returns to power, this will change.

“I believe Donald Trump will stop the flow of money to Maduro through Chevron,” he commented.

Support for Israel and Gaza Reconstruction

Regarding the conflict in Gaza, Scott supported Trump’s proposal to assist in the reconstruction of the area but insisted that Israel’s security must be the priority and that Arab nations should also contribute financially.

Commitment to Venezuelans

To conclude, Scott reaffirmed his support for Venezuelans in the U.S.: “I will fight for Venezuelans who are here, who are not terrorists or part of Maduro’s regime. I will fight every day.”