This report discusses the current Congressional issues in relation to Venezuela. For more than a decade, Venezuela has experienced significant political changes under the rule of populist President Hugo Chávez, and for a number of years there has been concern about the deterioration of democratic institutions and threats to freedom of expression in the country.

This report discusses the death of Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, and the implications for U.S.-Venezuelan relations. The report also briefly covers Venezuela's constitutional provisions for presidential oath and absences.