Thanks to recent comments by Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, coupled with Venezuela’s decision to reduce oil output by 50,000, many people have begun to call for a boycott of all Citgo gas stations because, in a round about way, Citgo is owned and operated by Venezuela.
During last month’s United Nations meeting, President Chavez called President Bush “the devil” and has previously gone on record stating that OPEC members should reduce their oil output in the attempt to help bring the American economy to its knees.
In addition to Chavez’s remarks regarding the United States and President Bush, he is also widely regarded as the main figure in helping to stabilize and buoy oil prices during the late 1990′s. After the price of oil bottomed out around $10 per barrel, Chavez was able to orchestrate a coordinated OPEC wide cut back in oil production; enough to cause oil prices to increase 150%.
In an attempt to defend itself from a possible boycott, Citgo has released statements distancing itself from Chavez’s comments as well as reinforcing the fact that a boycott of any oil company could cause a dramatic recession in the United States economy.
In addition to the reports of an attempted boycott, there are rumors that 7-11, which previously had an exclusive gasoline agreement with Citgo, has decided to not renew its 20 year contract with the oil company due to Chavez’s comments.
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I can understand his not liking Bush, but why take that out on the working people of america? We should boycott Citgo for being affiliated with this guy. Any company that works with someone who seeks harm to the american people, directly or via prices that impose needless suffering on the working class, should be considered an enemy of the country and deserves what they get.