[knighthawk]

I don't know about the outcome. It still could go both ways. But when Schroeder wins, he will lose in 4 years big time, because he will not be able again to live up to his promises.

[Malesherbes]

I think Knighthawk is right. If Schroeder wins, and he probably will, he will have nothing but four years of misery and problems. Germany has an aging population, low birth rate, unassimilated third-world immigrants, economic stagnation, and according to the latest PISA studies one of the worse school systems in the EU (when measured by results.)

In addition, Schroeder has effectively isolated himself from the Bush administration. The Bushes, though congenial folks, do remember who their friends are (and aren't).

[Citizen of the Savage Nation]

As I understand it, he hasn't even begun to meet his *last* promises, and was 'widely' expected to lose just a few weeks ago. If he does win, using the tactics that he did, Germany will join Canada as so low on our totem pole of 'friends' that the rats will be chewing on the part that isn't buried.