i think the soldiers that exist on the supply side make any demands for lower prices a type of consumer-driven fascism that is entirely inconsistent with any kind of socialism.

this was entirely predictable, even years ago. the hierarchy that chavez left behind was absolutely dependent on his altruism. any kind of even marginally less enlightened fool - and that would be a compliment if directed at maduro - would inevitably interpret taking control of that system as inheriting a fascist dictatorship.

we'll find out how much of a socialist veneer he wants to hang on to, and we'll find out just how ideological the venezuelan masses really are. but i'm fully expecting this to end up more like franco's spain than castro's cuba.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/11/09/venezuela-seizes-stores/3486581/