Politics
According to the third quarter's public opinion survey conducted by pollster Alfredo Keller & Asociados, 30 percent of Venezuelan voters define themselves as followers of President Hugo Chávez; 37 percent as swing voters and 33 percent as anti-Chávez.

The survey reported that 22 percent out of the 1,200 nationwide respondents defined themselves as "very pro-Chávez", whereas 24 percent said they are "very anti-Chávez." The remaining 44 percent was "somewhat a follower of President Chávez, neutral or somewhat anti-Chávez."

The public opinion poll reported that 77 percent of Venezuelan voters will certainly take part in the parliamentary election to be held on September 26. According to the projection of the pollster about intent to vote a candidate (among voters who are sure to go to the polls), 43 percent would vote the ruling party, whereas 57 percent would vote opposition parties.

According to the survey, the issue of most concern for the Venezuelan people is crime followed by unemployment. High cost of living comes next. Other problems include housing, lack of access to public services, discord, health and education.

Crime also appears to be the main problem in the area where respondents live, followed by the lack of water and garbage.

The poll was conducted in 67 cities and towns with more than 20,000 inhabitants.

Translated by Gerardo Cárdenas

Sara Carolina Diaz
EL UNIVERSAL