Amen. This is the best they can do, from a situation standpoint. Public campaign finance is dead, so no huge advantage next time. The chances of us holding an election so close to economic upheaval again in our lifetime is close to nill. The chance to justify electing a charismatic leftist because he’s the first black man is over.
I’m willing to give President Obama a fair shake. If he stays within the bounds of the law, let him try his policies and see what the next election brings.
The two jokers in the deck are the actions of our enemies overseas and the specter of President Obama thinking that you can treat the USA as one big Chicago. The first could rally the country behind whoever is in office, if it happens close to the 2010 elections, or ruin him if he pulls a Chamberlain. The second will bring him down pretty fast, and he may not be able to see it.
You make great points about the “jokers in the deck.” That’s the crux of the deal and what causes me worry. But like you, I’ll remain optimistic and wish President Obama the best and try to appreciate the moment for the historical value of it. His achilles heels are big ifs, but he will probably stay center-left in his administration and, God willing, a republican congress will ascend in 2010 to reign him in. I don’t anticipate misery, but it will be very interesting.