Denny Hansen said:
I believe anyone who says, "Vote for Hillary" so the Rebublicans can win next time is extremely closed minded.
I'm not going to vote for Hillary, but it's not as bad of an idea as you might think.
I say this for two reasons. One, I was in finance. Two, I'm retired.
Now that might sound odd, but it figures into the two biggest problems facing the USA. That being Iraq and the economy.
Here's the dirty little secret, no President of any stripe is going to be able to fix both issues in four years--or possibly eight.
First, unless you decide to tuck your tail, we're staying in Iraq. That means more war, and wars cost money. The economy is already flagging, probably closer to depression than recession. Taking more money out of the system for taxes to finance the war is a losing idea.
So on Iraq, the next President will be a coward or the guy that drives up into a full blown depression. Not a great career move either way.
Now, what's this business about me being retired? Well, it gives me a certain insulation from daily events. Follow me.
Number one, no need to go to Canada, I'm too old to be drafted.
Taxes? I pay less now than ever before so the war is a moot point. They could double our efforts in Iraq and shoot Tiffany silver bullets and I doubt my tax load will do anything. However, I vote and I am more than likely to vote for any plan that saves an American boy.
The economy? Again, I'm insulated. I get a SS check every month and I have a nice little side business. I have quite a nice berth for making additional cash before it's deducted (and I've never hit it). Even if I was close I'd just take some days off and ride my bike. Why take a tax hit for a few bucks?
And finally, I am not alone--there are 78 million other 'boomers just like me.
From the chatter I get at the gym, most of us 'boomers are doing the same thing. Teachers are retiring and subbing a few days per week for spending money. Retired lawyers who like to garden are opening up little landscaping businesses. My wife is slowly starting a Pampered Chef business so it's ready to go full tilt in 18 months when she's fully retired.
Fewer working hours, more sleep, increased time for hobbies and two checks.
Heck, Hillary can start having an affair with Monica Lewinsky for all I care. Why do you think I call myself "The Tourist"? Why, I'm just passing through here, son.
So, the next Prez is going to fail--big time. Unpopular war, indifferent voter base, lousy economy and tax payers exiting their wage earning roles by the millions.
It will be like a train wreck--tragic, but you can't turn your head.
Hillary, Obama, McCain? Who cares. Just a caretaker for the worst stretch of Presidency since Lyndon Johnson. And for the exact same reasons.