Comrade Obama seen quietly nodding in approval.

Via Guardian:

The Venezuelan president, Hugo Chávez, brandished the sword of independence hero Simón Bolívar as he celebrated his re-election with a promise to further his government’s brand of socialism during a new six-year term, in which he will face several economic challenges.

“Truthfully, this has been the perfect battle, a democratic battle,” Chávez told the euphoric crowd outside the Miraflores palace. “Venezuela will continue along the path of democratic and Bolivarian socialism of the 21st century.”

The triumph was shared by jubilant supporters throughout Sunday night after a hard-fought but convincing victory over the opposition challenger, Henrique Capriles.

Tens of thousands of supporters descended on Caracas in cars, on motorbikes and minibuses, waving flags, honking horns and chanting: “Viva la patria!” (long live the fatherland).

In the barrios of Catia and 23 de Enero – the heartlands of Chavismo – a party mood seized the streets as red-shirted residents danced and sang while fireworks exploded overhead. Some cried mock tears as they carried the “political coffin” of challenger Capriles.

HT: DRUDGE