Venezuela: Chávez's Party Wins Elections But Ends Up Short of Two-Thirds Majority

MRzine

Hugo Chávez's party the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) obtained 95 deputies in the 165-member unicameral National Assembly -- in other words 58% of the seats. The opposition captured 64 seats, 39% of the National Assembly, denying the Chávez government and its supporters the two-thirds majority that they sought. In the Latin American Parliament elections, the PSUV won 6 of the 12 seats. The turnout was 66%.

PSUV's national campaign coordinator Aristóbulo Istúriz said, "We couldn't achieve it [the two-thirds majority]. Nevertheless, we have obtained, so far, 95 deputies, an overwhelming majority, a really overwhelming victory. . . . It clearly makes us the strongest political force in our country."

"Well, my dear compatriots, it's been a great day, and we have won a solid victory. Enough to continue deepening Bolivarian and Democratic Socialism. We must continue strengthening the Revolution! A new Victory of the People. I congratulate everyone,"