actions. does one really have to explain that venezuela s problems are primarily caused by its nasty government, that the venezuelan people have not been allowed to pick their leaders or determine their future. they have clung to power by rigging elections, crushing opposition parties, muzzling the media and using lethal force against protestors. since 2015 an estimated 3 million venezuelans have fled the country. that s 10% of the country, equivalent to an exodus of 30 million americans. but millions more venezuelans are staying and fighting. they have come out in droves to vote against this government almost defeating maduro in 2013 despite an unfair election and successfully bringing an opposition parliament to power in 2015. fr the last few years venezuelans have organized protests against the regime enduring tear gas, and they have