Constitutional changes sought by President Hugo Chavez were defeated 51 to 49 percent.

TURNOUT

About 56 percent of the electorate voted.

SOME KEY AMENDMENTS

• Lengthening presidential terms from six to seven years. Allowing president to run for reelection indefinitely.

• Allowing the president to declare an extended state of emergency .

• Allowing the president to hand-pick local leaders.

• Prohibiting large land estates.

• Reducing the official workday from eight to six hours.

• Granting the president control over the Central Bank, which previously had autonomy.

REACTION

Lawmaker Ismael Garcia, referring to the hourslong delay before the vote was announced: "There will be time for celebrations."

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