Maduro's grip on Venezuela tightens

CARACAS, Dec 10 (AP): Socialist President Nicolas Maduro further consolidated power in Venezuelan local elections on Sunday, while accusing President Donald Trump of plotting to overthrow him.

The majority of nearly 2,500 council seats spread across the crisis-stricken country went to members of Maduro's United Socialist Party of Venezuela, election officials loyal to Maduro said.

After casting his ballot, Maduro spoke on state TV scoffing at Trump and other foreign leaders who have labeled him a dictator.