The New Fidel (Hugo Chavez)

Front Page Magazine ^ | March 2, 2005 | Frederick W. Stakelbeck, Jr.

[MisterRepublican]

Although their actions have slipped largely under the radar screen due to America’s continuing duties in the War on Terror and in Iraq, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and his minions have initiated an aggressively anti-American campaign in recent months that poses a direct threat to the security of the United States.

In late January, General Melvin Lopez Hidalgo, secretary of Venezuela’s National Defense Council, and Foreign Minister Ali Rodriguez both commented on perceived “hostile expressions” and “plans for a U.S. attack” on Venezuela. U.S. officials have responded by denying any suggestion of an overthrow of the Chavez government. However, given the frequency and nature of the anti-American comments coming out of Caracas, should the Bush Administration be concerned? The answer is a resounding yes. The Chavez presidency poses a substantial national security threat to U.S. interests, Latin America and the Venezuelan people.

During his often tumultuous tenure as president, Chavez has systematically eroded many of the freedoms gained with the overthrow of Venezuela’s last dictator, General Marcos Perez Jimenez. He has authorized an end to the privatization of state holdings, augmented his presidential powers, weakened the judiciary and legislature, cut oil production to raise prices, and expanded the governing role of the military.

Human rights violations under the Chavez presidency have been noted by a number of international agencies, and both the Washington Post and Wall Street Journal have called for a more aggressive policy to curb the abuses. Likewise, a new media law purportedly designed to protect children and increase broadcaster accountability has been criticized broadly as little more than an attempt by Chavez to silence his opposition.

[NEBUCHADNEZZAR1961]

We must deal with him sooner rather then later. We cannot let China build another stronghold in Latin America (thanks Bill and Jimmy!)

[kaktuskid]

Seize Venenzuelan holdings in the US (CITGO petroleum) under the enemy act!

[Righty_McRight]

He'll probably be in an American prison by 2007.

[Shermy]

"Statements made by Chavez praising Fidel Castro have been extremely disquieting to Washington as well. Many experts have speculated that Castro is grooming Chavez to be his heir apparent. “Fidel [Castro] for me is a father, a companion, a master of the perfect strategy,” Chavez has stated."

The perfect strategy to remain in power. He's term-limited soon. All the blather about the American enemy is pretext to excuse his upcoming revocation of the constitution he holds so dear.

[marron]

All the blather about the American enemy is pretext to excuse his upcoming revocation of the constitution he holds so dear.

Yeah, the one he wrote himself.

[vpintheak]

The DUmmies love this guy. I amazed at their idiocy, even though I should know better by now.

[7.62 x 51mm]

Yikes! Didn't know this, MR. Thanks for posting. Pls add me to your Ping List.

[Cincinatus' Wife]

Although their actions have slipped largely under the radar screen due to America’s continuing duties in the War on Terror and in Iraq, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and his minions have initiated an aggressively anti-American campaign in recent months that poses a direct threat to the security of the United States.

Here's what they've missed.

Hugo Chavez - Venezuela