Nullius in Verba

Some times it all comes together and we live the ideals of the path our founders set us on.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed…”

It was a historic day for us. I even agree with President Bush:

No matter how they cast their ballots, all Americans can be proud of the history that was made yesterday. Across the country, citizens voted in large numbers. They showed a watching world the vitality of America’s democracy, and the strides we have made toward a more perfect union. They chose a President whose journey represents a triumph of the American story — a testament to hard work, optimism, and faith in the enduring promise of our nation.

Many of our citizens thought they would never live to see that day. This moment is especially uplifting for a generation of Americans who witnessed the struggle for civil rights with their own eyes — and four decades later see a dream fulfilled.

Lincoln said:

“Ballots are the rightful and peaceful successors to bullets.”

and

“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.”

I have little doubt he’s been tested already. We know his character.

I’m all verklempt. Talk amongst yourselves.

“I belong to no organized party. I am a Democrat.” – Will Rogers


I’ve been reading of lines stretching around city blocks, voters waiting hours to cast their vote in this historic election.

At my polling place, the Lower Lake United Methodist Church, there were no lines. I walked in. Signed in. Filled in the optical scan cards. Dropped the package in the shredder box and was on my way in less than ten minutes.

The poll worker I talked with said they expected to be there until 11PM.

I did think it odd that I had to dunk my finger in purple ink.

Oh, one last thing. Today is the last day to vote. Don’t let anyone tell you that the polls will be open tomorrow.

“The thing about democracy, beloveds, is that it is not neat, orderly, or quiet. It requires a certain relish for confusion” – Molly Ivins

VOTE today. Don’t let Molly’s memory down.

“Politics is not a picture on a wall or a television sitcom that you can decide you don’t much care for.” – Molly Ivins

Molly would have loved to see this day. VOTE Tomorrow.

“We are the people who run this country. We are the deciders.” – Molly Ivins

VOTE on Tuesday, November 4th

This is post for my international readers, though it may be interesting to one or two others (i.e. my entire readership). The President of the United States is not elected by popular vote, rather he is elected by the US Electoral College with its 538 electors. These electors come from the states and the District of Columbia.

The Economist developed this video to explain the electoral process, beginning in June of this year. The leaning of the state (based on polling data) for a candidate’s party affiliation is indicated by color, red for republican (McCain) and blue for democrat (Obama).

Now, for a different take, look at this, 7-11 coffee drinkers are totally in the cups for Obama.

Joe the Plumber is the gift that keeps on giving, isn’t he? Rather like a poison oak rash one can’t help but scratch. John McCain would bring him to Washington? For what? Secretary of the Interior? Secretary Samuel Wurzelbacher?