It strikes me that if there is no difference between political parties, then it should make no difference whether one votes for Barack Obama for a second term or (scary but possible prognostication here) Michele (God help us!!) Bachmann.

I had high hopes for Obama when he was first elected. He has had absolutely vicious and irrational opposition on everything he has tried to do, but even so, I really wish he would grow a spine and stop seeking compromises with those who, out of sheer cussedness, have absolutely no intention of giving an inch.

Knowing (disgusting, but unfortunately true--UNLESS we were to go to a preferential voting system, but when both current parties agree to that, there'll be ice hockey in Hell!) that third parties don't stand a chance under our present system—and especially in the current political climate—it's pretty much between Obama and whoever the Republicans put up, possibly (shudder!) Michele Bachmann.

If Bachmann were to win, I think I would move to Somalia and take my chances. . . .

Don Firth