[kcvl]

“That demographic” was stupid to vote for him in the first place.

[writer33]

“That demographic” was stupid...

There...fixed. LOL!

[tanknetter]

“That demographic” was stupid to vote for him in the first place.

You have it somewhat backwards there. It should be "that demographic voted for him because they are stupid".

I have significant doubts that this country would be in better shape today if McCain would have been elected. Or really any of the other credible GOP 2008 candidates (Romney and possibly Huckabee). The economic ills of this country - which put us exactly where we are today - are systemic in nature and the result of DECADES of belief that the government can actively "fix" problems like the ones we're experiencing.

"Fixing" the problems will require draconian measures along the lines of what got the US out of the 1920-1921 Depression (discussions of which have occurred here on FR over the last few days. Basically massive cuts in both government spending (including entitlements, in order to bring down the deficit and debt) and corresponding cuts in taxes for all taxpayer groups (to spur consumer spending and economic growth). THAT'S going to require a truly transformative leader - even beyond another Ronald Reagan - that will lead the public away from its dependence upon government solutions.

McCain, Romney, Huckabee, etc, would not have been that transformative leader. And I doubt that a "free lunch" mentality public that clamors for a leader who will "fix the problem" through active government means is smart enough to realize what they *really* need.

[italianquaker]

That “white ship” has sailed