Venezuela vote dispute increases threat of new foreign sanctions

Venezuela's opposition cried foul on Monday over the ruling socialists' surprise win in gubernatorial elections, raising the prospect of more foreign sanctions against the country as France and the United States both criticized the vote. President Nicolas Maduro's candidates took 17 governorships, versus five for the opposition, in Sunday's nationwide poll, according to the pro-government electoral board.  The socialists' strong showing came despite devastating food shortages, triple-digit inflation, and a collapsing currency. Polls had suggested the opposition would easily win a majority. More…