Australian election

Howard loses in a landslide to Labor. Great.

Now the Aussies have gone for a liberal who talks about the need for diversity, workplace reforms (?), environmental protections, and pulling out of Iraq (http://apnews.myway.com/article/20071124/D8T42OMG0.html). One of his first priorities is reversing the country's position against the Kyoto Protocol.

We are becoming the last hope for maintaining a civilized nation.

Rep. Murtha (D. PA)

Does anyone still think Tom Murtha is a patriot after all he has said about our troops? The man won't shut up.

Will someone in PA please run against this man?

The second Civil War?

I don't think many Americans feel comfortable with either Party. The difference is that some Democrats are so offended by Republicans' positions that they take them as personal affronts and think conservatives are truly bad people (i.e., "they don't care if children go to bed hungry"). On the other hand, some Republicans think Democrats are dangerously foolish.

So I'm wondering if we're heading toward a 3rd (and 4th) Party(ies) or modified Republican and Democrat parties. I'm thinking it will be the latter and that we'll get there by the end of the '08 election.

BTW, does anyone know if this is a good read: The Second Civil War by Ronald Goldstein?

The electorate is fearful

The electorate is fearful of the Republicans going into Iran, of the economy, of global warming, of Congress' impotence . . . Take your pick.

I'm hearing alot of this. Obviously, the fear-baiting Democrats are successfully working their messages. Here are my takes on all this -

1. Iran - No one, not even talk radio, is talking about putting troops on the ground in Iran.

2. Iran - If Ahmadinejad's nuclear plans aren't blown up, Israel is a goner (I'm not Jewish; Israel is a trusted democratic ally in a part of the world where fanaticism rules. And, not insignificantly, in October there was a major oil find in Israel).

3. The economy - it is fine; there is no recession. That is a fact.

4. Global warming - be more fearful of the 2008 election.

5. Congress - Pelosi couldn't manage a 1-car funeral. She has accomplished zero and if that is the reason for fear, you're right, I don't get it.

18-34 year old voters

A Rock The Vote poll* shows there is much more support among 18 - 34 year old voters for Giuliani (8%) than other Republicans - apparently, he is viewed by such voters as both a "hard-nosed pragmatist and a social moderate" (Politico.com).
[*Not sure what organization sponsors this.]

I think Giuliani will attract older moderates as well, especially females (with his more pro choice stance than other Republicans). This may not be showing up in other polls yet since this group may consist largely of first-time voters who are not on their radar (which would also help Hillary's numbers).

I also find it interesting that 32-42% identified themselves as Republican or Republican-leaning and 37-49% identified themselves as Democratic or Democratic-leaning. I was surprised to see the percentage of Republican voters (larger than expected).

Impact of intl. events on the '08 election

We know the situation in Iraq is improving. That seems to be indisputable by all but the Harry and Nancy fanatics/defenders.

I'm wondering about Iran (Israel, Lebanon, Syria; heck, the entire Middle East if things really get out of hand), an attack on U.S. soil, or a completely unforeseen attack. Who benefits?

For example, if there is an attack on U.S. soil, I can see that being a + or - for the Administration and Republicans.

Predictions.

Iowa - Obama and Huckabee
NH - Mitt and Hill.

Finally! The races are heating up.

Good old American politics: Hill-bashing, push-polling, negative advertising heaven!

See: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1107/6951.html

Another GOP retirement

Rep. Mike Ferguson (R-N J.), 37, wants to spend time with his young family.

My bet is that this is yet another GOP-tard who is getting out before all of his lousy votes and un-GOP activities are exposed.