Turmoil in Venezuela Resonates in SE Michigan

On Detroit Today, Stephen Henderson speaks with journalists and a Venezuelan activist living in Southeast Michigan.

Jake Neher/WDET

Venezuela has been in the news a lot lately. Last month, Juan Guaido declared himself the country’s interim president. But last summer, the current president, Nicolas Maduro, claimed victory in the country’s election during controversial balloting.

The South American country is being rocked by economic crisis, but it has significant oil reserves. Because of that, it has attracted the interest of American politicians, including members of the Trump administration.

How did Venezuela get to this point, and what does it mean for us in America — and, specifically, people in Southeast Michigan?

On Detroit Today, Stephen Henderson speaks with journalists and a Venezuelan activist living in Southeast Michigan.

Eli Lopez is senior editor for global opinions at the Washington Post.

Gregory Wilpert is a writer and co-founder of Venezuelanalysis.com, which describes itself as “an independent website produced by individuals who are dedicated to disseminating news and analysis about the current political situation in Venezuela.”

Alfredo Navarro Toledo is a native of Venezuela, a doctor and president of Venezuelans United in Michigan — a Michigan-based nonprofit organization that sends humanitarian aid to Venezuela.

Click on the audio player above to hear those conversations.

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  • Detroit Today
    Dynamic and diverse voices. News, politics, community and the issues that define our region. Hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Stephen Henderson, Detroit Today brings you fresh and perceptive views weekdays at 9 am and 7 pm.