Well, a lot has happened since I last posted any thoughts. America has chosen an historic direction by voting into office Barrack Obama. He will become the first African-American to so serve. This truly is a new day for America. I just hope that this "new day" isn't too new.
Obama and his cadre of leaders are claiming a mandate from the American people for significant change. Why is it that whenever people win presidential elections they claim some mandate? Now, it is true, some have won by a landslide. In that case, a mandate can be claimed. But most win by a few percentage points. So, can one claim a mandate from just half the people? Not me.
One percentage caught my eye and told me a lot about what happened. In general, the percentage of Republicans and Democrats who vote in a presidential election is pretty even--37 to 38%. However, in this election there was an obvious difference. Democrats maintained their average, while the Republicans dropped by an amazing 7% to 8% points. Now this fact may not have changed result of this years election. But it is telling. It helps reveal that McCain never did garner the needed support of his party.
Change was inevitable for two reasons. First, how do you stand in the way of history? We have witnessed history in the making. In some ways, it's a remarkable time to live for we have come so far as a country. It's a journey we needed to make. Whether now or with this man, is the right time and person, I'm not convinced. Time will tell. Second, Republicans shot themselves in the foot. They betrayed their base support through their own pride and corruption. Who knows how long it will take to repair the damage and rebuild the trust.
In the meantime, with a Republican party as damaged goods, who will be in a position to act as a check and balance to a Democratic Party claiming a mandate? Government size and spending has already ballooned under Republicans, so what will happen as spend-happy Democrats seize even more control? I shudder to think.
Who knows, maybe Obama will come to his senses as he is absorbed in his "new day." I know, dream on, Basicguy.
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