Interesting times we live in, as the old Chinese curse goes.
It really comes as no shock, and shouldn’t to anyone. It’s inevitable that sooner or later, as the FedGov really runs up against the wall vis-a-vis deficit spending, they’ll go for any source likely. That includes everyone’s 401k.
Like I’ve said, my gut tells me Obama is a two-termer. I know that may sound impossible, given the overall state of the economy, world affairs, etc., but I think he’s got a good chance at being re-elected. There’s really no-one on the GOP side I see (as of this writing) who can generate the enthusiasm needed to defeat him. Mind you, with Mrs. Palin’s bus trip, she could well be a potential candidate who I think may well be able to defeat Obama, though of course, nothing is guaranteed in politics. Only time will tell; if she officially tosses her hat into the ring, then there’s a good chance Obama will be out come 2013. If not, barring a dark horse candidate, (ie, Herman Cain, Rick Perry, etc.) the GOP will likely revert to their typical, “OK buddy......you’re up next!” routine, and I don’t see that firing up the base sufficiently. And of course, if the base isn’t fired up, Obama wins by default (to quote Homer Simpson, “DE-FAULT; the two sweetest words in the English language”).
It’s waaaayyyyy to early to try and call 2012. The GOP field isn’t even close to drawing into some kind of focus.
I confess to being extraordinarly cynical in regard to any politician, and that include Mrs. Palin, Mr. Cain, Mr. Perry, and whomever I may have forgotten to mention. I trust no politician. My attitude is best summed up by a great quote from the late Arthur C. Clarke (though I forgot which book); “ ‘Those who actively seek power are usually the most ill-suited to wield it’ “, or something to that effect. The current occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is the living proof of that maxim. Oh well.........maybe I’ve just become jaded in grumpy in my older, more mature years.
I think I’ll go out and enjoy a nice cup of Turkish tea here in Berlin - maybe even a kebab. It’s a beautiful day here, about 75 degrees, clear skies.
One last thing; it pains me to say this, being a proud American, but I can honestly say there’s more freedom here in Europe, aside from the rather anal beauracracy, than what I’m reading about back home. No SWAT teams shooting innocent people that I’m aware of, no being molested at the airport, no hassels from power-drunk police (the polizei, at least in Berlin, are quite helpful, especially if you’re American; they like Americans generally), I can smoke in the cafe or bar, and it’s generally pretty relaxed. Of course, I’m only talking about Berlin; your mileage may vary.
That was a nice post to read with my first cup of coffee. I also read your profile and I am envious.
I’m too old to pull out and move to some other place on the planet and if I did, it would have to be on a boat so that I could quickly leave when the neighborhood was no longer to my liking. ;>)
I truly believe that Palin can stop the wreckage and with our help, get this country back on track. If that doesn’t happen, I’ll envy you even more.
Firearms, are you allowed to have firearms over there?
I hope you enjoyed your cup of Turkish tea.
Cheers.....