I'm not sure I agree GW. His previous behavior has been to acknowledge the legitimacy of the results of the referendum. Chavez is full of bluster, but I'm not convinced that he will react with open suppression. I do think he is under enormous pressure, both politically and economically. Isn't it more effective (and less expensive politically) to try to pacify than to suppress?

Runslow...it could go either way...but in my view things are such a mess that it will be difficult for Hugo to pacify. If he is confronted with losing his "job for life" he just might try the strong-arm approach rather than fade into the trash bin of history. I'm thinking he rather fancies the idea of living in a palace and flying in private jets whilst playing the role of saviour of the downtrodden. It sure beats wearing a paper hat and leaping into action when the bell goes off on the french fry machine.