Trump Snubs Nobel Winner: Who is Delcy Rodriguez, Venezuela’s New Acting President?

The power vacuum didn't last long. In the chaotic aftermath of the United States' abduction of President Nicolas Maduro, an unexpected figure has emerged to lead Venezuela. In a surprising move, President Donald Trump bypassed Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado to recognize Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as the nation's interim leader.

Why Trump Chose Delcy Rodriguez Over Machado

On January 4, 2026, following military strikes on Caracas, Trump announced that Rodriguez had been sworn in. Despite Machado's Nobel Peace Prize win and her close ties to Washington, Trump claimed she lacked enough support to lead. Instead, he praised the 56-year-oldRodriguez for being "gracious" and willing to negotiate with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to "make Venezuela great again."

Delcy Rodriguez: From Revolutionary Roots to Economic Powerhouse

A native of Caracas, Rodriguez's political DNA is rooted in left-wing activism. Her father, Jorge Antonio Rodriguez, was a rebel fighter killed in police custody in 1976. An attorney by trade, she rose through the ranks of the Chavista movement, serving as foreign minister and later as the head of the Constituent Assembly.

What makes her attractive to the U.S. is her perceived economic moderation. As finance and oil minister, she fought hyperinflation with orthodox policies and maintained ties with Wall Street and U.S. oil executives. Her appointment to the oil ministry in August 2024 signaled Maduro's reliance on her ability to navigate sanctions.

The 'Tiger' Defiant

Despite Trump's endorsement, Rodriguez remains publicly loyal to her predecessor. On state TV, she condemned the U.S. action as "brutal aggression" and demanded Maduro's release. "There is only one president in this country, and his name is Nicolas Maduro," she stated, even as the Supreme Court ordered her to assume the presidency to ensure "comprehensive defense of the nation."