A federal jury convicted former Florida Congressman David Rivera on conspiracy and six other charges for secretly lobbying on behalf of Venezuela's state-run oil company. The $50 million contract required Rivera to influence Congress and the White House for a thaw in U.S.-Venezuela relations, contradicting his public anti-Communist stance during his 2011-2013 congressional term.

Rivera faces approximately 10 years in prison after being found guilty of failing to register as a foreign agent and money laundering. Prosecutors presented evidence showing Rivera split about $20 million in contract earnings with associates, including political consultant Esther Nuhfer, who was also convicted on four charges. The case revealed how foreign entities seek to influence U.S. politics through undisclosed lobbying.

The trial drew national attention when Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified against his former housemate and political ally. Prosecutors argued Rivera kept the contract secret out of greed, while defense maintained he was actually working to oust Maduro. The conviction represents a significant victory for transparency in political lobbying and sends a warning to those who might consider similar undisclosed foreign influence operations.