Lots of weirdness in the air. The forces of fear. The forces for security. But there is also an undeniable hope afoot - if you are still able to recognize hope - with those who are about to vote for Barak Obama tomorrow as this column by Andrew Sullivan illustrates, especially in this concluding passage:
...there is something about his rise that is also supremely American, a reminder of why so many of us love this country so passionately and are filled with such grief at what has been done to it and in its name. I endorse Barack Obama because I will not give up on America, because I believe in America, and in her constitution and decency and character and strength.
Now, to watch McCain introduce the SNL Political Bash 2008. He needs more TV time. He has to be the best straight man politician going. Him and Steve Martin. That would be a good team. Good like the supporting the constitution good. If, you know, you live in a western democracy.

Comments
this1 - November 3, 2008 11:15 PM
I am from Illinois, I urge you to watch this tape before you go vote tomorrow! You may not like the tone, but there are some VERY VALID POINTS MADE HERE...SO REALLY LISTEN! AMERICA DESERVES THE TRUTH NOT A COMMUNIST!
God Bless America!
http://www.veoh.com/videos/16305269G6fTetJ5
Alan - November 3, 2008 11:33 PM
Did I write "cue the fruitnut cakes" anywhere up there?
Blabs - November 4, 2008 12:08 AM
I believe in America. I studied Political Science for four years at an American university and have taught American politics to America's youth. What I don't believe in is someone I know very little about. Who is Obama? I know what the media has told me, but if you are an independent thinking American you don't believe what the media tells you. What do we know of his character? Where do we look to find signs of a man's true character whom we have never met. We look at his history and how he has endured the test of time. I haven't known Obama long enough to know his character and he has so little history in American politics that I cannot judge him worthy of the highest office in the land.
Temujin - November 4, 2008 2:15 AM
Erhm I wouldn't consider Nick Packwood a Fruitnut Cake, would you?
TRex - November 4, 2008 3:33 AM
I suppose the "who is Obama" argument works if you think that he could possibly be worse than Bush and his doppelganger McCain. It’s really not all that complicated a choice this election unless one is covering up for something that is best left unsaid (cough*racist*cough), hmmm?
Alan - November 4, 2008 7:04 AM
I think Blabs and TRex both are right as both speak to low standards in a time of high expectations. But Obama has been more specific than alleged and McCain is more his own man than the accusations would have you believe. Given there is no incumbent or a VP running for yoinks, the leap into the unknown is inevitable. Hence the need to ask the real question: "what would EVH do?"
Bob - November 4, 2008 9:04 AM
The checks and balances in government that this country needs are about to be blown off the face of the map. We are in for a very long 4 years people. Hold on to your wallet people...the sheep are lining up for their handouts!
Hans - November 4, 2008 9:05 AM
EVH? Eddie Van Halen?
Me - November 4, 2008 9:47 AM
Great post TRex...except the ONLY reason you mention that Obama should be president is because he is not a Bush doppelganger. In fact MOST Obama supporters have NO CLUE why their guy should be president...except of course that he's not like Bush. So why should Obama be President? Nobody can say because there is NO reason...not the media, not his supporters, not even the man himself can explain why he should be president! An "Obama-Nation" is going to be an obomonation of the American way. No more "land of the free" or "land of opportunity" instead we'll have the "land of if you become successful you must support all of those who don't want to even try." WAKE UP PEOPLE this sleazy salesman isn't selling used cars!
Also to TRex... I agree that racism is going to be in play for this election, but only because many blacks WILL vote for Obama because they are racist. In fact it seems us blacks are more racist than whites anymore. LETS GET OVER IT!
Alan - November 4, 2008 9:50 AM
+1 for Hans.
Me: last time you get to use "Me" or comments get deleted.
Terri Criscio - November 4, 2008 9:52 AM
I am tried of people saying the government is the cause, NO we the people are. We have become a country of The government will take care of me and I want it right now no matter what the cost. We need to take responsibility for our actions. We need to change the way we do things, starting a home, with our families and our communities. Hold ourselves accountable.
Urimaginaryfrnd - November 4, 2008 11:13 AM
Why are so many of you people so crazy about Obama? If you look at what he has done in the past thousands of americans have a better resume for the job. He is a junior one term senator who has spent most of that time on the campaign trail. To dismiss his friendships with radical people is foolish with those ties he couldnt even get a job with a police department or join the military. And you fools want to make him commander in chief of the military. Oh my god what are you smoking. I keep looking for option number 3 but it isnt there. The change you are hoping for is not the change you will get. For me I prefer to keep Freedom, Liberty, The Constitution, The Flag, The National Anthem --- You can keep the Change.
veronica - November 4, 2008 11:28 AM
I dont trust obama at all. people are sheep, i live in a state full of sheep (il)... if obama is so great why is his state (IL) the most taxed state??? i feel like im the only one who see's this... there are a long list why he shouldnt be a presidant... if does get the office.. i am runing to the hills...
Terri Criscio - November 4, 2008 11:31 AM
Thank you Urimaginaryfrnd
Hans - November 4, 2008 11:37 AM
Was there a sale on tin hats somewhere today?
veronica - November 4, 2008 11:40 AM
"If you look at what he has done in the past thousands of americans have a better resume for the job."
Urimaginaryfrnd
that is so true.....
confused - November 4, 2008 12:00 PM
Guess whoever is goin to be in the White house it will always be the same doesn't matter if it is black or white our government is now corrupt. I noticed that now aday a person that wants to be a president in america just want to be a very powerful human being, no wonder America create lots of enemies 'cause we just want power and take over every other country that is not a Democratic country
Alan - November 4, 2008 12:07 PM
Likely we got linked somewhere. Sorta like when I complain about China and embassy employees get an alert to contest what was said in the comments.
Melissa - November 4, 2008 12:32 PM
I wish someone would listen to what I have to say. I am really pissed off. Everyone is voting for Obama because he "could," that's right I said could, lower taxes. It doesn't mean he is going to do it. Before the election even started getting serious, Obama went over to Iraq, all the troops were excited to see him, and guess what he didn't even shake a troop's hand. Come on! Those troops are over there fighting for him so he can stay alive to be president. What the hell is that?! None the less, Obama said that he was going to bring our troops home because he does not want to pay non-taxable money to our troops over seas. He's stupid and I believe that he will eventually get assasinated. I don't know what the hell he was thinking running for president. Just wanted people to know the real fucking truth. McCain all the way!
Renee - November 4, 2008 1:12 PM
It's like watching a car wreck in fast motion.
McCain, the "maverick", voted with Bush 90% of the time. Obama was an actual grassroots community organizer trying to make life better for the poor, and trying to enfranchise people (Oh yeah, and ACORN was actually reporting fraudulent registrations, unlike the 4 or 5 Republican organizations who were out there doing the same thing). If Republicanism is about the largest national debt in world history and socializing the banks, then why is everybody calling Obama a socialist?
PS: What did Jesus say? Sell all your belongings, give them to the poor, and come follow me. McCain said "No way!" and bought another house.
Renee - November 4, 2008 1:13 PM
That Jesus guy, he is so overrated.
TRex - November 4, 2008 1:15 PM
Frankly I'm beyond debating Obama's gravitas and ability to lead, it should be evident by now that he's going to win and that is all. I am more than happy to sit back and see where he takes the US...and the world. He ran a class campaign against a desperate and negative opponent who was left flinging turds in all directions. This won’t just be an Obama win but the end of the Republican Party as we know it, and good riddance. Any change from the ruinous road 43 and his clown car of phony patriots have been driving down is a change for the better. I just hope he gets the chance to show us his plans, cuz y’all know the odds are stacked against him.
On a more cerebral note, I suspect he will have more than enough help from high level disaffected Republican Party faithful who know the difference between success and failure for the US. Let the good times roll in 3…2…1…
Alan - November 4, 2008 1:17 PM
TRex: you are an occasional comment maker but do you have any idea where the rest of the comments are coming from? I can's see a link on technorati (and am not able to see my own referral log anymore). I would be interested in knowing where the action is coming from.
Terri - November 4, 2008 1:23 PM
This is not about parties, it is about america and what we the people can do to make things better. Not the government!
DANIELLE - November 4, 2008 1:26 PM
God Bless you all! Whether you are Republican or Democrat, bottom line is that...
[Ed.:..yawn...]
...why is it so hard for people to accept the fact that we are all equal. Why can't this man become president...
[Ed.:..yawn...]
...That's some truth for you, now OBAMA all the way. Chill out, your lifestyle wont be altered and I hope...
[Ed.:..yawn...]
...Obama can stay in office full term like Bush did. Can somebody say the wealthiest country facing what.....ecomonic depression for stupidty. Girl get your mind right. We need CHANGE!!!!!
TRex - November 4, 2008 1:31 PM
Alan: I'm not sure I understand, you can't see where your commenter’s are posting from? Don’t you use Google Analytics or some such software to monitor traffic? I’m posting from Moscow.
terri - November 4, 2008 1:34 PM
Danielle, you must be [Ed.:..yawn...].
Danielle - November 4, 2008 1:48 PM
Yes, you can say that I am...
[Ed.:..yawn...]
...it is harder for minorities period, maybe my thinking is terrible but I don't care and I am only speaking from experiences.
Helantonia - November 4, 2008 1:51 PM
Today was a historic day. Regardless to however anyone wants to feel about their candidate. Understand in life there are two arguments that will never be won, religion and politics. Choose your battles and choose them wisely. The people who went and stood in line at "o'dark thirty" this morning with me want a better America. I saw young and old taking their places in line to have their voices heard. No one complained they just got in line. When I finished marking on my ballot and, went to turn it in. I found myself behind an elderly woman with pale skin and pure white hair. She was about 80 years old and the poster child for the old south. I looked down at her ballot and she marked "O-B-A-M-A"! The world is changing. So, for all of you griping and complaining about what people are or are not. I ask you,"Did you vote, yet?" and if your opinion is so great, "Why didn't you run instead"? It is so easy to sit back and do nothing to change the world. Then there are people who make the sacrifice to make a difference. Why complain and beat someone down for not wanting to sit back and do nothing? Regardless of their age or experience. I am sure those of you will attempt to persuade or insist that my views are incorrect but, like a mountain I shall not be moved. I can now truly and honestly look at my children without hesitation and tell them you can be whatever you want to be in life after today!
MiaNV/FL2 - November 4, 2008 2:05 PM
Melissa - I bet you consider yourself [Ed.:..yawn...]
TRex - I agree with you - I too will enjoy watching the balance of the Republican Party self destruct. We have suffered for eight years with GWB as president and thankfully, McSame does not have [Ed.:..yawn...]
Neither party or candidate can correct eight years of national destruction brought about by GWB and his reincarnation of Reagan's legacy! However, true change is what this nation desparately needs and Obama is the only choice for change. The 'old boy network' needs to be shaken up with the addition of new blood!
Obama is our only hope for change.
Alan - November 4, 2008 2:10 PM
I am now editing comments at my whim. This is getting a little out of hand.
Hint: avoid using "I bet you consider yourself..." or "people like you..." or other self-bolstering constructs.
Danielle - November 4, 2008 2:16 PM
I totally agree Maam, I have just seen how this election is taking a toll over all of our minds. I wouldn't comment had I not contributed to the votes or even thought of something that I could do personally to make a difference in the least bit and I'm going to do just that. I just rather not hear the negativity of...
[Ed.:..yawn...]
...I'm for anything that promotes change for all and I just cant understand why things are the way they are. I'll just stop wondering and make sure I continue to serve my purpose.
Alan - November 4, 2008 2:23 PM
There. That's better. It is nice to be nice, people. It's my house and I don't like accusatory conversation. Feel free to explore the ideas but do not ascribe motives, please.
MiaNv/FL2 - November 4, 2008 2:35 PM
Alan, I notice you did not edit Melissa's comments.
Go Obama in 2008 for the presevation of this nation. edit that!
renee - November 4, 2008 2:45 PM
Bahahaha.
Terri - November 4, 2008 3:04 PM
so much for free speech
DANIELLE - November 4, 2008 3:07 PM
Hey Alan, please refrain from boasting, because the last I heard blogs were opinionated. You are exhibiting that inequality because you have not edited her comments, that why I responed the way I did.
Danielle - November 4, 2008 3:13 PM
Renee you need prayer! Bahahaha
Alan - November 4, 2008 3:19 PM
"Go Obama in 2008 for the presevation of this nation" is a call for political action. That is fine.
Danielle, I am an arbitrary host - a captain of leaky ship - and am aware of my own failings but nowhere in any of this have I boasted. These are simply my rules. This is not a public forum. But if you point to a personal slur or a racial construct that is anywhere above, I am happy to edit that, too.
Besides that administrative stuff, how did you find this blog?
Danielle - November 4, 2008 3:29 PM
Obviously its not to private, dont worry though!
Alan - November 4, 2008 3:36 PM
"Not to private"??
You miss the essential point. Blogs are run by people, not some public body. Don't like it, don't type.
sean - November 4, 2008 3:47 PM
Egad.. I say.. egad. See, one post Alan and I sound more sane than I have in years. "Attention Tin Hatters.. genx40 posted about our election! GO!"
Being Canadian, it's hard to wrap ones mind around the Republican Nation mindset. No, I don't mean the Republican Party, I mean the American Republic. The fetish of pomp, ceremony, a Pledge of Allegiance said like a mantra by schoochildren to a piece of fluttering cloth which represents some vauge ideal of liberty and freedom. The idea that an elected official is something regal and deserving of blind obedience and no criticism just because he or she was elected leader for a fixed, non-easily-ended four year term. from a Canadian point of view, it more resembles an elected Emperor than a president. but I Digress.
Yes, Obama is for a good number of people, the choice being made because he is the epitome of anti-Bush. He is black, articulate, friendly (seeming) and democrat. He has flaws, but dare not speak them around his supporters for fear of being branded a right wing moron. I do like him so far and were he running here, I might just vote for him, regardless of what party he supported.
Yes, McCain is a Republican and supported Bush on a good deal of his issues, but people, thats the way it works in a two party (read-FLAWED) system.. you are either on one side or another on all issues. If you flip flop, you are branded a rogue and will be treated as such by your own people. McCain is old. Yep, 82, thats old. McCain's people found him a flawed (but 15 years ago cute) VP who is very Bush to appeal to the Republicans who can remember McCain NOT agreeing blindly with Bush et al. But he seems genuine and a nice guy and not all that bad. I do like him so far and were he running here, I might just vote for him, regardless of what party he supported.
Okay, I said my bit. I'm not so crazy now am I?
TRex - November 4, 2008 3:55 PM
McCain is 72.
Alan - November 4, 2008 3:56 PM
I think he meant 182.
sean - November 4, 2008 3:59 PM
72, 82, 102.. Meh..
But a nice guy, don't get me wrong, and a funny guy too as seen on SNL. I'm with Alan. He and Steve Martin would be awesome together.
David Janes - November 4, 2008 5:20 PM
Holy moley, turn my back on this place and look what happens!
Alan - November 4, 2008 6:07 PM
You turned your back on this place????
Renee - November 4, 2008 8:33 PM
Has anyone else seen John Cleese's "How to Irritate People" ?
Crazy old lady: I'm A HUNDRED AND THREE!!!
CKP - November 5, 2008 12:39 AM
Melissa, you are ... [Ed.:...yawn...] consider changing with it.... God bless u