Voters in Bolivia and Venezuela weigh in on their political futures. Bolivians voted in favor of a new constitution and Venezuelans soon determine whether their president can seek indefinite reelection.

President Hugo Chávez has decided to sustain an international fuel assistance program for low-income Americans. But dropping oil prices could force his government to feel the economic pinch and slow international oil diplomacy efforts.

As the 50-year anniversary for the Cuban Revolution nears, Raúl Castro makes his first state visits abroad. His statements at a regional summit raise speculation about future relations with Washington and what mediating role Brazil could play.

In El Diario/La Prensa, Christopher Sabatini writes that the media inflated South America's leftward shift. Instead, election outcomes reflect the desire for pragmatic change similar to the one shown by the choice of Barack Obama for U.S. president. (en español)

President Hugo Chávez and his Colombian counterpart Álvaro Uribe may each seek reelection. Both command high approval ratings but face possible political and economic challenges in the coming year.

Venezuelans voted Sunday in municipal elections. While President Hugo Chávez's Socialist Party won 17 of the 22 governorships up for grabs, the opposition chipped into his party's power grip by gaining the mayoralty of Caracas and other crucial posts.

Since July, commodity prices have contracted, threatening spending programs and fiscal policy in Venezuela in particular. But the Chávez government remains optimistic amid cautionary calls.