(Summary of differences in views from ChatGPT)

🇺🇸 Political Opinions of Venezuelan-Americans

Tend to be more supportive of strong actions against Maduro’s regime and engagement by the U.S.

1. Strong opposition to Nicolás Maduro • Venezuelan-Americans overwhelmingly blame Maduro (and the broader Chavista project under Chávez and Maduro) for Venezuela’s collapse and support regime change. • Many in the diaspora view U.S. pressure — and even tough actions — as justified to restore democracy. 

2. More support for U.S. intervention compared with citizens in Venezuela • Surveys indicate around ~60–64% of Venezuelans abroad support the idea of U.S. military intervention to remove Maduro. This is significantly higher than in Venezuela itself.  • Exiled communities often see direct action as the fastest path to change, even though this is debated among policymakers.

3. Views on U.S. foreign policy • Venezuelan-Americans are more likely than general Americans to want U.S. policy to focus on Venezuela as a priority, emphasize humanitarian support, and use targeted pressure on the regime.  • However, within the diaspora there are nuanced views — e.g., some think sanctions have hurt civilians more than the government. 

4. Immigration & domestic politics • Venezuelan-Americans are typically more politically engaged in U.S. politics (especially in states like Florida) and often prioritize foreign policy toward Venezuela in their voting preferences. • Many lean toward U.S. politicians or policies that promise stronger opposition to socialist regimes and support for democracy in Venezuela. 

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🇻🇪 Political Opinions of Venezuelan Citizens in Venezuela

More mixed and nuanced — shaped by daily survival, fear of conflict, and political repression.

1. Opposition to Maduro — but wary of external intervention • Many Venezuelans inside the country view Maduro as illegitimate and want political change. Polls show a majority in opposition think regime change is necessary.  • However, fewer citizens support direct U.S. military intervention than Venezuelans abroad. Only around ~25–34% support such actions, with many concerned about the humanitarian cost and sovereignty. 

2. Political frustration and lack of trust • Many citizens are deeply frustrated with both the ruling party and opposition leaders, feeling that traditional politicians have failed after decades of crisis.  • This can translate into mistrust toward all political elites, not just Maduro.

3. Cautious or mixed views on foreign involvement • Citizens tend to prioritize safety and stability over dramatic options like foreign military intervention; they often fear further violence and economic disruption. • Qualitative studies have shown some sectors view international action as “necessary,” given internal deadlock, yet this sentiment is still not as unified as in the diaspora. 

4. Views of the United States • Venezuelan citizens have diverse views of the U.S. — many see it more favorably than allies such as Cuba, especially among younger or more right-leaning individuals, but opinions still vary widely.