Well, I couldn't have been more in error when I wrote 'local.' The local media in Venezuela have led the elitist oppostion's attempts to overthrow President Chavez, and the striking oil workers represent a small percentage of Venezuela's workforce.

The popular demonstrations in support of President Chavez occured in December, I believe, when there was another concerted effort by the elitist minority to overthrow Mr. Chavez. Once again, as they had during the coup, a great mass of Venezuelans took to the streets in counter-demonstrations. These were reported by the foreign press, but not by the Venezuelan or American media.

It was the great mass of people who took to the streets during the coup which represent Chavez's power-base. After all, it was this action by the people which restored the deposed president to power.

I'll try to find that link for you later. In the meantime, a little reading may be profitable for you:

Fair Mediahttp://www.fair.org/press-releases/venezuela-editorials.html

Zmag 1

Zmag 2

Web discussion on Chavez

Chavez is a popular, democratically elected leader of a sovereign nation. He is being opposed by an elite minority led by the national media, big business, and in particular, Big Oil.

sp