Some things to think about as debate rages on all fronts.

The Republicans now control, more or less, the executive and legislative branches at the Federal level, and stand a good shot at more input on judicial.

Logically, on that basis, pretty much anything bad that happens in the next two years will be blamed on the Republicans. Conversely, pretty much anything good that happens, the Republicans will be able to take the credit.

A small quiz:

1) Bush instigates an attack on Iraq. The attack goes smoothly, with few casualties. Weapons of mass destruction are discovered in secret enclaves when the scientists are finally liberated. Flowers are thrown at American soldiers. The North Korea problem is settled.

Which party will gain in the 2004 elections?

a) Democrats
b) Republicans

2) Bush instigates an attack on Iraq. Saddam sends his own country up in flames, blowing up facilities, wells, and countless of his own people. Our troops fall victim to massive gas attacks, and come home in body bags by the hundreds. The Iraqi people blame America for their trouble. North Korea attacks the South.

Which party will gain in the 2004 elections?

a) Democrats
b) Republicans

3) The economy improves rapidly in the next two years after the tax cuts are passed. Employment goes up, as does the stock market. It's obvious we are in for a long upswing. People are upbeat about the future.

Which party will gain in the 2004 elections?

a) Democrats
b) Republicans

4) The economy stays flat for the next two years. The tax cuts are stalled in Congress. Unemployment rises. Prices rise. People are miserable.

Which party will gain in the 2004 elections?

a) Democrats
b) Republicans

I could go on like this for a while, but I think the point has been made. The Democratic Party has placed itself in a position where it now has the best chance of success only if rotten things happen to America and Americans.

Given this, the motivations of the Democratic Party and their allies in the media, academia, and elsewhere, need to be taken into account when you listen to what they say.