[Geewiz]

Chavez used populist hatred of the US for his own political benefit (and much of the third world does hate us). While Chavez didn't like us, he didn't cut off the flow of oil - that he could have easily sold to China.

While Chavez wasn't a "good guy" - at least he didn't engage in crucifixion like our pals in Saudi Arabia.

When it comes to oil - we will get in bed with any regime that will feed our thirst and look the other way when they engage in genocide.

I am not saying Chavez was a good guy - but, he was far from being the worst - actually when he insulted us...he kinda had a sense of humor about it. The whole "Bush as the devil" thing was pretty funny whether you agreed with his assessment or not.