Marco Rubio testifies against friend and former Florida congressman over Venezuela ties

Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified against former Florida Rep. David Rivera, his longtime friend, in a case involving accusations that Rivera secretly lobbied on behalf of the Venezuelan government. Rivera faces federal charges related to failing to properly disclose foreign lobbying work, a violation that carries serious penalties under federal law. The testimony marks a notable moment given Rubio and Rivera's long personal relationship dating back to their time together in Florida politics. Rubio, who has taken a hardline stance against the Venezuelan regime as the nation's top diplomat, has made opposition to foreign influence operations a priority for the Trump administration. The case underscores the tension between personal loyalty and legal accountability in high-profile Washington prosecutions.