Statewide
Arnold Schwarzenegger easily defeated Phil Angelides. I was hoping his coattails could help McClintock or Strickland get it but that did not happen. Steve Poizner was elected Insurance Commissioner but a candidate would have to be pretty bad to lose to Cruz Bustamante.

Bruce McPherson, the only other Republican incumbent lost. I am relatively happy with that, especially after I saw him speak in Political Science 179 last semester. Among my problems with him is his support for in state tuition for illegal immigrants.

I wish a few of the bond measures would have gone down, but that was not the case. I am happy the cigarette and oil taxes went down. Prop 85 lost by a larger margin then last year’s 73.

The National Scene
Republicans did a lot of things to merit losing. Outrageous spending, increasing government programs, and lack of Social Security reform are a few of the culprits. The situation in Iraq swayed a few voters. The scandals including Jack Abramoff and Mark Foley did not help. The cover up by leaders in the house did not bolster confidence either.

I would not call the election results a realignment of politics, as much as the rejection of the current elected officials’ group performance. A lot of moderates picked up seats.

Six years ago I was excited. Republicans had control of both Houses and the Presidentancy. In ‘02 and ’04 they went against the tide and picked up even more seats. Along the way they lost the Republican values that were swept into office so dramatically in ’94. I want a new Contract with America for 2008.

I don’t think Democratic control of the Congress will mean a significant new policy direction. I did not hear a unified plan before the election. They will be contending with an opposing President and his veto. Also both sides will be preoccupied with the ’08 election. The Democrats will look for every possible way to build on their momentum and the Republicans will be looking for a President since no Vice President is waiting in the wings.

What are your complaints about the past and hopes for the future? What do you think the Democrats will get done with Speaker Pelosi and majority leader Reid?