The Road to Venezuela's Elections: A Look at the Media, Public Opinion, and the Economy

After 13 years in office, President Hugo Chávez is seeking re-election. He faces perhaps his strongest contender yet, Henrique Capriles Radonski, the 40-year-old candidate of the opposition’s Democratic Unity coalition and former governor of Miranda state. At the same time, questions remain about the president’s health and the evenness of the electoral playing field.

Panelists will analyze popular support for the candidates and citizen demands and interests, the effect of the president’s health on the campaign, access to the media and freedom of expression, and the likely economic impact of the October 7 elections whoever wins.