I agree with everything you say. However, I would like to add the following:
The pent up anger that has been festering since 2008 and is now rearing its ugly head, is yet another factor as to why FR has become a place for “I-can-urinate-further-than-you” attacks not only against candidates but against fellow FReepers.
I do know that it is definitely sad and not representative of FR over the years.
You are absolutely correct. Hopefully we can keep the car from going fully into the ditch. I have a feeling we will be needing the old freerepublic very soon. Let's hope we haven't blown the motor by then. (metaphor much?)
Kush