Chavez, Putin Election Updates

Putin and Chavez make the U.S. presidential candidates seem downright boring. Be thankful for that. Here is a roundup of reports about megalomaniacs Hugo Chavez and Vladimir Putin. Yes, the two go together, like peas and carrots. Some of the more interesting news items I've come across: Re: Chavez and Putin The Thrill of Victory (Venezuela) and the Agony of Defeat (Russia) - Publius Pundit Putin Wins Election In Russia—Chavez Suffers Defeat - SatNews Publishers Putin, Chávez, Clinton - Socialism and Power - Agoravox, France - Vladimir Putin is “leaving” his position as Russian president; Hugo Chávez wants his position as Venezuelan president for life. Re: Chavez (With Video) Opposition supporters set off fireworks and poured on to the streets to celebrate what they said was the preservation of democracy from a power-hungry autocrat. More at the Guardian... Chavez Accepts Defeat - For Now - Narco News Radio Venezuela en Vivo - Live Red flag in Venezuela - Khaleej Times, United Arab Emirates Re: Putin Putin win not fair, say observers (Guardian Unlimited) - International observers today issued a scathing report on Russia's elections, describing yesterday's poll as "not fair" and highlighting numerous flaws including "unprecedented" abuse of office by president Vladimir Putin. Europe urges Russia election probe - Malaysia Star Russia's parliamentary election - The Economist Putin's Push to Retain Power - Washington Post