Carl's Take on the Election

Every election has its own dynamic.  This was clearly a repudiation of Obama and the Democrats (they were very lucky to hold on to the Senate, actually), as well as a withholding of support by those who once felt passionate about the promised 'hope and change' of 2008.  It is what it is.  And like everything in life, what seems bad may actually be good, and vice versa.  Only time will tell.

On the other hand, personally, I'm not at all unhappy about some of the election results. 

--Like Andrew Sullivan, I think Rand Paul is a good addition to the Senate, given his principled libertarian willingness to cut the defense budget.  He should prove to be a useful 'loose cannon' in the Republican caucus in the Senate.  Thank you, Kentucky.

--I didn't like the Democratic Senate nominee from Illinois (Obama's personal choice), Alex Giann...whatever, while his opponent Mark Kirk had an amazing background.  So I'm satisfied that the Republican Kirk won.  Corruption should never be rewarded.  Thank you, Illinois.

--I am so relieved that 'I am not a witch' Christine O'Donnell was trounced...maybe now she'll stop runnning for the Senate and start over by being elected to a school board or something more appropriate.  Thank you, Delaware.

--I think Sharron Angle was a bit dopey and definitely not up to the Senate, no matter what her ideology.  Thank you, Nevada.

--Frankly, it was time for the Republicans to actually have some power so that they just can't stand back and refuse to cooperate in real solutions.  Time to put up or shut up...about the debt....about the economy....about these godawful wars and the reckless spending that goes with them.  In other words, they need to be accountable too.

--In fact, just about every goofy candidate--Sharron Angle, Christine O'Donnell, Carl Palladino, etc.--went down to blazing defeat.  That alone gives me some faith in the basic common sense of the American people, as expressed in elections.

--On the other hand, how in the heck did that whoring David Vitter get reelected in Louisiana?    Shame on you, Louisiana.

--Finally, I am mourning the loss of Russ Feingold of Wisconsin.  A truly independent, thoughtful, and courageous Senator, he will be missed.  Wisconsin, you blew that one big time!