The terms 'left' and 'right' don't really mean anything within the context of this situation. I think that despite doing so much good for the poor of his country, Chavez is making moves we have seen before in some other South American countries. In Kissinger's words, "Even paranoids have enemies."

Chavez is not loved by the US administration. This article from a few years ago is a must-read.

Whether Chavez is making a power grab because he wishes to keep effecting change in Venezuela, or because he feels a definite threat of another attempt to overthrow him, he is taking a shot at having more power. For what I have no idea--meaning has he gone over to the 'darkside', and if so, whose? And if not, then who would have an interest in seeing him topple.

Another thing to look at besides the news we're fed is the relationship between Venezuela and China. And who would find the cooperation between those countries to be against its corporate or national interest?

I don't think the thing in Venezuela is quite as simple as it seems. There are lots of dancers on the main screen, but the people in the shadows are even more interesting, IMO.