Rubio to testify in trial of former congressman accused of secretly lobbying for Venezuela

PBS NewsHour
by Joshua Goodman, Associated Press
March 23, 2026
3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Secretary of State Rubio is testifying in trial of former congressman David Rivera over alleged secret Venezuelan lobbying.

AI Summary

Former congressman David Rivera is on trial for allegations he secretly lobbied for Venezuela's government while concealing his foreign connections during the first Trump administration. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to testify in the case, lending high-profile attention to charges that Rivera violated federal disclosure requirements. The trial centers on whether Rivera failed to register as a foreign agent while conducting undisclosed work for the Venezuelan government, a violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act. Rubio's testimony could address the Trump administration's policies toward Venezuela or Rivera's activities during that period. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of foreign lobbying by former U.S. officials and the enforcement of transparency laws.

What's Being Done

Trial proceedings are underway with Rubio providing testimony regarding Rivera's alleged covert lobbying activities.

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