[Pessimist]

"It is almost like the two parties have done a divide and conquer on us to meet where they always planned."

I see that too. Depending on the day, Some days (when my tin foil hat isn't at the cleaners) I think our gvt, like most others, is really just controlled by the elites -regardless of their party. I'm guessing a lot of these guys belong to the same country club, have the same investments, etc...

Other times I think the leftward lean of our gvt is just a reflection of the leftward lean of the population. When you listen to a lot of the comments here from supposed conservatives, you can really see the erosion in that term anymore.

I'm not sure which perspective depresses me more.

[satchmodog9]

They have conditioned us to depend on government hence my conclusion. Look at all the clamor on FR regarding lack of federal involvement during Katrina. So many RINO's on this forum who don't even know they are.

[sergeantdave]

Don't get depressed; get even. Join the fight, and let's take our party back from the stupid RINOs.

I've got an antique two-foot long paddle. I'll loan it to you.