Election 2006
It’s 10:06 pm and CNN is saying that the Democrats are set to take over the House. No big deal to me as an independent. That said, what I find interesting is that the Dems will find themselves in the awkward position having to be somewhat more Republican than the Republicans on certain matters.
Two points stick out: first, there will be strong pressure to get the deficit and spending under control. While Republicans haven’t been strong on this historically, it’s the Democrats who are most often characterized as being the spenders.
Second, if they’re going to survive, the Dems will have to be strong on Iraq and the terrorism bogey man. This may not mean supporting the war forever, but I think all Americans want us to do what’s “right” in Iraq, and it’s going to require a strong policy if the Democrats want any shot at the Presidency. It won’t be enough to just oppose Bush. Americans want a plan that will work out best for everyone.
I’m kind of nervous about what this means for immigration reform, but on the whole I think the change will probably be good for the nation. Sure, we’ll still take it up the rear, but maybe we’ll get some lube this time.
