News. Views. Hughes - January 23, 2019 (17:00 ET)

Trump backs Maduro rival in Venezuela

US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido has proclaimed himself “acting president” of Venezuela. President Nicolas Maduro responded by accusing the US of orchestrating a coup against his government. Investigative journalist Ben Swann joins News.Views.Hughes to discuss Venezuela’s escalating political crisis, explaining that while Guaido’s claim to legitimacy is within the bounds of Venezuela’s constitution, the US record of undermining Maduro and Hugo Chavez before him throws Trump’s motives into question.

Chinese Military Shifts Focus to Sea, Air and Cyber Space

China’s military has reduced the size of its standing army by nearly 50 percent. The move is part of changes designed to modernize their forces, shifting their focus to sea, air, rockets and cyber warfare. Despite its shrunken size, China’s standing army remains the largest in the world. RT America’s Sara Montes de Oca has the story.

Scottie Nell Hughes: Trump & Pelosi addicted to drama

Scottie wonders if the pettiness of the escalating Trump-Pelosi feud reminds anyone else of a couple going through a divorce. Why can’t they at least keep the power struggle beyond closed doors? Maybe it’s because they love drama and spectacle more than the work of government.