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Yes. Absolutely. I would add that Chavez's criticism of US policies represent popular sentiments world-wide and within the USA, also. Nothing that Chavez has said is that terribly original, however, it is wonderful that someone with his access to media is saying it.

From my perspective as an American completely embarrassed by the conduct of the George W. Bush administration, I am glad that Chavez criticizes Bush and Co. mercilessly.

That said, I don't entirely trust Chavez, either. Power corrupts, as you know. While it was good for a chuckle when Chavez made the comment that Bush was the devil and the U.N. podium still smelled of sulfur(1) it wasn't a productive comment.

One thing I am glad Chavez and Venezuela (via Citgo) have done is sponsor a Low Cost Heating Oil program(2) to assist the poor in the United States. There is absolutely no reason why we Americans, in the wealthiest nation on earth, cannot make sure everyone is warm during the colder months.

The fact that we don't fully care for our own citizens is an embarrassment, no matter what you think of the man (Chavez) who points it out.

Of course, in the same breath and with the same hand, Chavez threatens the US with oil embargos. That does not make me happy, of course, but fills me with a resolve to elect a leader who at least gives diplomacy a try, and has the brains to attempt it. Sadly George W. Bush does not.

If the American people do not wake up to the fact that who they elect genuinely represents them to the outside world, we will continue to be threatened and continue to come under attack. It is time for the USA to behave in line with reality: that we share this planet with others and we need to care for our own people, not leave them to rot in poverty.

At this point, someone usually draws back and gasps "But that's Socialism!" as if labelling an act of kindness with a supposedly repulsive word is enough to write off the whole idea. You can call it what you like, but ignoring the poor only gives people like Chavez more traction. He's clearly a man with an agenda against the USA, but since he has a few good points, and more good points than our own administration, he gets publicity.

If we had a decent president who paid more than lip service basic morality such as caring for your fellow man, then Chavez would not be as newsworthy with his charity or his criticisms.

SOURCES:
1. CNN Website. Chavez: Bush 'devil'; U.S. 'on the way down' POSTED: 1:26 p.m. EDT, September 21, 2006. http://www.cnn.com/2006/WORLD/ americas/09/20/chavez.un/index .html

2. CITGO's Low Cost Heating Oil Program. http://www.citgo.com/Community Involvement/HeatingOil.jsp

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