Evangelical Christians are often courted by right-wing politicians. But in Venezuela, left-wing President Nicolás Maduro is trying to secure the church's support in the run-up to elections.

The Biden administration has extended an olive branch to Venezuela. It might sway Caracas to resume talks with the opposition for elections, and eventually let Venezuelan oil back on the world market.

Venezuelan opponents and U.S. officials were predicting his demise years ago. But Nicolás Maduro and his Socialist Party remain firmly in power.

The president's loyalists are poised to sweep the National Assembly elections Sunday, adding to the litany of woes facing his chief rival, Juan Guaidó.

Nicolás Maduro has remained in control despite international pressure and attempts to remove him, while opposition leaders weaken.