Despite most Americans limited knowledge of the country, Venezuela is vital to US security in Latin America. Oil reserves, proximity to the war on drugs and antagonist to the war on terror, are a few key disputes. Hugo Chavez rise to power has placed Venezuela in the news on an almost a daily basis. Contrary to many perceptions, Chavez does not present the strategic threat implied in many media reports. However, he is an emerging regional threat backed by huge oil wealth and an ambitious ego. This threat will not evaporate any time soon. Chavez has been elected four times, decisively defeating his opponents each time. Additionally, the ideology of his Bolivarian Revolution, and its accompanying social and political reforms, enjoys strong appeal. This has garnered him the support of the country's poor--the largest voting block in Venezuela. The true nature of Chavez's threat is two fold. First, he's subtly and methodically converting the Bolivarian Revolution into a form of strong man socialism. Second, he's using subversive means to spread the Bolivarian Revolution and establish a Pan Venezuela. His strategy includes oil favoritism, manipulation of perceptions and covert activities. All in an attempt to undermine other Latin American nations.
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