According to Chavez's results, he won 54% versus Henrique Capriles Radonski's 44%.
This would seem to defy the logic of what was seen and felt on the streets in Venezuela -- and captured by independent polling data -- but it doesn't defy the logic of Chavez's absolute control over Venezuela's electoral process and institutions.
Chavez's 54% put him just below his friend, Russian President Vladimir Putin's 63% victory earlier this year.
Thus, authoritarianism prevailed today -- but not forever.
Finally, and most importantly, kudos to Venezuela's courageous opposition movement.
May they remain united in strength and purpose -- for Chavez's greatest victory would be their disintegration.
