I spent some time in Venezuela (as well as many other Central and South American countries) about 12 years ago. At the risk of inflaming some tempers here (sorry Jonathan) I have to say that political opinions tended to shift with the wind. Whatever the locals felt, they felt it STRONGER than any Americans I have every witnessed (including political feelings/opinions expressed here on the UT!). However, they ran hot and cold and changed their opinions as to which side was in favor. I hope the tendancy to switch sides so quickly has changed, however, that was due more to an instinct for survival than anything else. Their feelings tended to remain the same, the vocalization of those feelings changed very quickly! We are so lucky that while our country is not perfect (far from it) we enjoy (as a rule) so much more political freedom in this country that we can truly express our opinions to all and not just to our closest 'trusted' friends.
Tracy

>>>Jonathan,
>>>
>>>>Hi everyone.
>>>>I wonder what do you think about Venezuela's situation.
>>>
>>>Two things:
>>>
>>>1) We probably ought to move this to the Chatter section.
>>>
>>>2) If I correctly understand a non-socialist has now taken over for a socialist who ran the economy into the ground (as they always do)?
>>>
>>>If that's correct, I wish him well. Get folks owning private property and give everyone a Bible. Best thing they could ever do MO.
>>
>>It always peaks my interest when an insider (Jonathan) asks outsiders (Us and anyone outside Venezuela) for an opinion. Ours is how we perceive whats been on the news......Jonathan could give us an insiders detailed perspective....What say Jonathan?
>
>Greg;
>
>Depending upon the policies in force at this time in may not be healthy for Jonathan to have or at least to express an opinion. Being a third person and away from such action is much safer.
>
>Tom