Spotlight on Hugo Chavez

While addressing the United Nations this week, Hugo Chavez called President Bush “the devil” and said he could still smell “sulfur” lingering at the podium where Bush had stood the day before.

The remarks even had some Democrats defending Bush, including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, who called Chavez “an everyday thug.”

So who is Chavez?
He’s the president of Venezuela, a federal republic. He’s been elected twice since 1998, although he initially attempted to take power in a failed coup back in 1992 and ended up in prison. He’s at the helm of a Bolivarian Revolution there, a movement toward social democracy, where capitalist ideals are married with equal benefits for all. Support for him is split and some worry he has too much power. And while oil riches are pouring into the country, almost half of the 25 million people live below the poverty line.

Why is he in the spotlight now?
Lately he’s been on what is seemingly an international anti-U.S. public relations tour. Recent stops include Cuba, where he celebrated Fidel Castro’s 80^th birthday, China and Syria, where he rejected the “American empire’s imperialism.” He’s a supporter of Iran and has threatened to cut of oil supplies to the United States if it were to attack Iran.

Basically, he’s not a fan and has been rallying other leaders who are disgruntled with the U.S. He accused the U.S.of plotting to kill him; The United States government has called him dangerous. Nonetheless, last winter he sold oil at discounted rates to poor people in the Northeast, and he says he’ll double the program this year.

The big picture
Venezuela is home to one of the largest oil reserves in the world, and is the fourth largest supplier to the United States behind Canada, Mexico and Saudi Arabia, respectively. China recently pledged $5 billion toward oil infrastructure in Venezuela.

Oil prices could spike by $11 a barrel according to some estimates if he cuts off supply to the U.S. And while he’s already garnered much attention on the international stage, it’s likely this is just the beginning as he wants a seat on the U.N. Security Council.