Michael Rowan talked about the book he co-wrote, The Threat Closer to Home: Hugo Chavez and the War Against America (Free Press; January 6, 2009). The book takes a critical look at the rule of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. Former U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela Otto Reich joined him to comment on the book. Ray Walser moderated. Discussion topics included the global geopolitical impact of Venezuela’s decreasing economic and personal freedoms and what the U.S. can do. Then both men responded to questions from members of the audience. 

Michael Rowan is a political consultant for U.S. and Latin American leaders. He has advised former Bolivian president Jaime Paz Zamora and Costa Rican president Oscar Arias. Mr. Rowan has also counseled winning Democratic candidates in 30 U.S. states. He is a former president of the International Association of Political Consultants.