Venezuelans in US Celebrate Machado’s Nobel Win Amid Deportation Risks

Venezuelans in the United States are responding to opposition leader Maria Corina Machado‘s recent Nobel Peace Prize win with mixed emotions, as they navigate the ongoing threat of deportation. Machado, honored for her efforts toward achieving a democratic transition in Venezuela, has garnered significant support among expatriates. However, the context of her victory is overshadowed by the termination of programs that had allowed over 700,000 Venezuelans to live and work legally in the U.S.

Located in Doral, Florida, known as “Little Venezuela,” the community is experiencing a bittersweet moment. The Trump administration ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and humanitarian parole programs, leading to increased fears of deportation for many Venezuelans. Since 2014, more than 7.7 million individuals have fled Venezuela due to its economic and political turmoil, making it the largest exodus in Latin America in recent history. More than 1 million of those have settled in the United States.

While Machado’s Nobel recognition is a source of joy, many Venezuelans acknowledge its limited impact on their precarious situation. Machado’s alignment with Donald Trump—particularly his policies regarding Venezuela—has raised concerns. Following Trump’s announcement to end TPS for Venezuelans, Machado expressed her commitment to seeking protections for law-abiding Venezuelans, although her recent statements reflect a lack of optimism regarding progress.

Machado dedicated her Nobel Prize to “the suffering people of Venezuela and to President Trump for his decisive support of our cause!” This sentiment resonates with some, but not all, as community leaders express reservations about her ability to influence U.S. immigration policy. Frank Carreño, former president of the Venezuelan American Chamber of Commerce, noted that Machado views the U.S. government as part of her strategy to restore democracy in Venezuela, rather than as a direct advocate for Venezuelan nationals at risk of deportation.

Retired Venezuelan military officer José Antonio Colina, who arrived in South Florida in 2003, sees the Nobel Prize as a validation of Machado’s fight for democracy and liberty. He expressed hope that the recognition would invigorate efforts to remove Nicolas Maduro from power.

Despite the excitement surrounding Machado’s win, community gatherings in Doral fell short of expectations. Iris Wilthew, a Venezuelan American retiree, anticipated a celebratory atmosphere at one of the community’s popular restaurants. Instead, she found the venue relatively empty. Before departing, she placed a poster featuring Machado’s name and the title “The Nobel Prize 2025” in the restaurant’s window, accompanied by the message “#VenezuelaLibre.”

Wilthew praised Machado as a “tireless fighter,” acknowledging the extraordinary efforts that have led to her recognition. As Venezuelans in the U.S. grapple with the dual realities of celebrating a significant achievement while confronting the threat of deportation, Machado’s victory may serve as both a beacon of hope and a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead.

The struggle for Venezuelans continues on multiple fronts, with the community remaining vigilant as they seek solutions to their uncertain futures in the United States.