Kirby, Don't let the media fool you with this "divided" country rhetoric. The country is always divided into some sort of percentage. FDR in '36 got roughly 61% of the vote; still means 39% were opposed. Nixon in '72 about the same, Reagan in '80, as well. 50/50 is pretty much ALWAYS the norm. (But you're correct; the pendulum always swings, eventually.)

Bush's mandate here, if he has one, is due due the fact that the Republicans picked up seats in both the House and Senate, as well; virtually an unheard of phenomenon. While Bush may owe his election to the so-called "culture war", it is my hope he does not squander all of his political "capital" over these issues.

Tax reform would be a nice start. I recall Reagan efforts to this end in the 80's. Henry Block, of H&R Block, testified AGAINST reform! Boy, was I ever peeved! Talk about preserving the status quo for self-interest. Akin to neurosurgeons against motorcycle helmets, or oncologists for tobacco. I expect more of the same, this time around.

Since le ole padlock goes on soon,(tick-tock, tick-tock), I'd like to take this opportunity to graciously thank Mr. Mitcheie-poo, for this wonderous thread of venting. Fishing reports are on the way, Mein Heer!