crap

November 3, 2004 8:22 AM

Kerry Concedes President Bush won a second term from a divided and anxious nation, his promise of steady, strong wartime leadership trumping John Kerry's fresh-start approach to Iraq and joblessness. After a long, tense night of vote counting, the Democrat called Bush to concede Ohio and the presidency, The Associated Press learned.
posted by Outlawyr (504 comments total)

So I did see three of these just now. I thought it was the beer. (#1 , #2, #3)
posted by dabitch at 8:27 AM on November 3, 2004

Well shit, we'll still keep counting the fucking votes, won't we?
posted by Peter H at 8:28 AM on November 3, 2004

Clinton/Obama '08. Start getting used to it.
posted by mrbula at 8:30 AM on November 3, 2004

FOUR MORE YEARS!

BUSH WINS!
posted by Steve_at_Linnwood at 8:30 AM on November 3, 2004

...
posted by hugsnkisses at 8:30 AM on November 3, 2004

Until the impeachment, anyway.
posted by DrJohnEvans at 8:31 AM on November 3, 2004

damn...so much for ohio being another florida, eh?
posted by joedan at 8:31 AM on November 3, 2004

I can't wait to moveon. This election and race was frustrating and one heck of a ride.

Nevada just announced, GWB.
posted by tomplus2 at 8:31 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by scottq at 8:31 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by rlef98 at 8:31 AM on November 3, 2004

Next on the agenda: Terry McAuliffe's resignation. Right? RIGHT?
posted by PinkStainlessTail at 8:32 AM on November 3, 2004

You poor yank bastards.
posted by Pericles at 8:33 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by bluedaniel at 8:33 AM on November 3, 2004

four more tears
posted by quasistoic at 8:33 AM on November 3, 2004

What a pussy.
posted by Espoo2 at 8:33 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by h00dini at 8:34 AM on November 3, 2004

Instead of dropping a pebble or a dot, I'd prefer we say FUCK YOU.
posted by Peter H at 8:34 AM on November 3, 2004

[dabitch, 3's a charm]
Well, I guess the question for Democrats is, if they can't beat this guy, who can they beat? Will the party shift left or right to change the numbers next time around?
The question for Bush is, does he move to more moderate policies given the slim margin of victory or does he get out the wish list and go crazy?
posted by Outlawyr at 8:34 AM on November 3, 2004

"You poor yank bastards."

"we'll be alright. you're the ones who're going to have to worry."
posted by lotsofno at 8:35 AM on November 3, 2004

WOO! FOUR MORE YEARS!!! WOO-HOO!!!!

Hang on, that sucks!
posted by dodgygeezer at 8:35 AM on November 3, 2004

"Steady and strong leadership"? Is that what you call being a reality-challenged pathological liar and ignoramus?

The people have spoken. The people are fucking idiots.
posted by Reverend Mykeru at 8:35 AM on November 3, 2004

No one can say that the will of the people was not served-- America clearly chose Bush and his policies. If the people on the coasts and in the cities want their views to be heard, they're going to have to think of other ways to do so, because the Nation at large is not really interested in their values or ideas at this time.
posted by cell divide at 8:36 AM on November 3, 2004

but at least

IT'S OVER!!!!

posted by scarabic at 8:36 AM on November 3, 2004

Christ, I thought every vote counted. Way to sacrifice the democracy, Kerry. I thought you had cajones.
posted by bunnytricks at 8:36 AM on November 3, 2004

Who will run in '08? And can a 3rd party get someone viable in the race?
posted by a3matrix at 8:36 AM on November 3, 2004

Clinton/Obama '08

For what? To ensure a third consecutive Republican term?
posted by loquax at 8:36 AM on November 3, 2004

FUCK YOU indeed.

and a dot.

.

Also, a "SEND HELP PLEASE"
posted by fillsthepews at 8:37 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by geekyguy at 8:37 AM on November 3, 2004

"we'll be alright. you're the ones who're going to have to worry."

Worry about what? That your economy will go down the toilet and then I'll be able to get DVD's really cheap? I mean, West Wing DVD's aren't cheap.
posted by dodgygeezer at 8:37 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by Busithoth at 8:37 AM on November 3, 2004

Outlawyr, well since he doesn't have to get reelected now, who cares about the slim margin of victory? I say he goes fucking crazy.

oh, and Bush and America's homophobes, FUCK YOU.

(on preview - scarabic it's just beginning)
posted by Peter H at 8:37 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by Shane at 8:37 AM on November 3, 2004

I'm glad that Americans seem to be more concerned with not letting gay couples share their health benefits than not destroying the world.

Getting those state anti-gay ammendments on the ballots and then using them in the 72-hour plan was a masterstoke. They are building a new circle of hell for you, Karl.

I now hate America for the first time in my life. Thanks, everyone.
posted by n9 at 8:39 AM on November 3, 2004

Clinton/Obama '08
For what? To ensure a third consecutive Republican term?

Yeah, because those right-wingers aint going vote for a woman and a black guy.
posted by dodgygeezer at 8:39 AM on November 3, 2004

No one can say that the will of the people was not served-- America clearly chose Bush and his policies.

Agreed, and I'm glad in a way. It's nice to know that the problem is the electorate. It dismisses this vain hope that we can somehow solve America's problems with one candidate. We can now officially stop fighting against Bush and start fighting against ignorance, intolerance and fear.

Peter H - well obviously the WORLD isn't over, but the anticipation of this firgging election is behind us now. That is, unless we're still waiting for a bumper crop of Kerry votes in Ohio, or whatever.
posted by scarabic at 8:40 AM on November 3, 2004

Kerry. I thought you had cajones.

Whatever made you think that? At least in '96 Bob Dole showed comittment and balls by resigning the Senate to run for higher office.

It was never all or nothing with Kerry.
posted by geekyguy at 8:40 AM on November 3, 2004

Americans could fuck up a baked potato.

My advice: Duck and Cover.
posted by dobbs at 8:40 AM on November 3, 2004

n9 - take it easy on those of us IN America who are as disgusted and outraged as you. Thanks.
posted by scarabic at 8:41 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by chicobangs at 8:41 AM on November 3, 2004

They may be two of the most pleasurable things around, but if I had a magic wand, I would wave it around (yesterday, maybe) and make sex and religion go away.

Without their invidious effect on American politics, such a petty and unreasonable man as GWB wouldn't have a chance at winning a dogcatcher's seat.

Four years of ineptitude and skullduggery wasn't enough? Shit.
posted by kozad at 8:41 AM on November 3, 2004

I drink gin when I'm angry.

It's so hard to hide gin in the office.
posted by quasistoic at 8:41 AM on November 3, 2004

Kerry can always redact his concession, a la Al Gore, can't he? CAN'T HE??
posted by Succa at 8:41 AM on November 3, 2004

I want to know if his concession means they
won't count the Ohio votes eleven days from now.
posted by Peter H at 8:42 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by nyoki at 8:42 AM on November 3, 2004

If Blair starts following a Bush agenda in the social sphere, as he does in the foreign policy arena, he's f*cked. He better still understand that we still believe in progress, not reaction.

You can keep your homophobic amendments, your anti-choice proposals, your crap education and your fantastic deficits.

It's democracy, Jim, but not as we know it.
posted by dash_slot- at 8:42 AM on November 3, 2004

scarabic: I agree with n9 wholeheartedly.

You know where I live.
posted by quasistoic at 8:43 AM on November 3, 2004

Once again... liberals bitch, conservatives vote. I now prepare for the inevitable "but the wrong people have spoken" whine.
posted by cmdnc0 at 8:43 AM on November 3, 2004

I'm so depressed - I had really managed to convince myself that Kerry could pull it off. Zogby made that prediction, and I was feeling quietly confident, and even hoping that Kerry would manage to win bigger than expected. And then the states he needed just started slipping over into the red, and now...

I just don't get it.
posted by jasper411 at 8:44 AM on November 3, 2004

Clinton/Obama '08

yes, let's talk about that. Why scream and rant?

Does anyone think they would go over? I don't think Hillary has a wide enough base. Obama is an interesting guy, but maybe in another year, '08 is too soon for him.
posted by tomplus2 at 8:44 AM on November 3, 2004

.

I'm seriously considering buying one of these
posted by daver at 8:44 AM on November 3, 2004

quasistoic: try vodka.
posted by kozad at 8:45 AM on November 3, 2004

This just makes me sad. Clearly I don't belong to this country anymore, if I ever did.

It reminds me of one of those Onion man-in-the-street quotes from 2000: "They say you get the government you deserve, but I don't remember ass-raping any nuns." You know, I don't care that this is what all these other folks want; it's that they insist on bringing me down with them.

*sigh*
posted by dame at 8:45 AM on November 3, 2004

> Until the impeachment

Yeah, Republican house/senate are problably burning up to impeach a Republican President.
posted by dand at 8:45 AM on November 3, 2004

I haven't been this upset or devastated in a long, long time.

To those in America who are in the minority, take cover, and stay strong.
posted by tomcosgrave at 8:45 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by rmannion at 8:46 AM on November 3, 2004

I don't think Hillary has a wide enough base.

Ha, come on now, baby got back!
(first laugh all day, thanks)
posted by Peter H at 8:46 AM on November 3, 2004

Just a little post-US-election mix tape I put together. Streaming OGG. Heed it well. Or just come on over, I'll offer you a place to stay.
posted by Jimbob at 8:47 AM on November 3, 2004

Yeah, because those right-wingers aint going vote for a woman and a black guy.

I have conservative relatives -college educated, mind you- who have said they would never vote for a woman for president because of PMS. Seriously.
posted by PinkStainlessTail at 8:47 AM on November 3, 2004

If Blair starts following a Bush agenda in the social sphere, as he does in the foreign policy arena, he's f*cked. He better still understand that we still believe in progress, not reaction.


Well he's started to go that way dash_slot. I wonder though whether he was praying for a Kerry victory. Who knows what we're going to get dragged into this time.
posted by Summer at 8:47 AM on November 3, 2004

kerry's done the right and honorable thing for the good of the country and i salute him for it ... like it or not, we have what we have

i'm staying ... not all of us have the luxury of abandoning ship, you know ... and ... we'll all survive ... trust me
posted by pyramid termite at 8:47 AM on November 3, 2004

It's time to focus on 2006.
posted by machaus at 8:48 AM on November 3, 2004

I dunno, Kozad. If that pesky religion thing wasnt around, sex wouldnt be such a hard thing to come to terms with, I dont think. No pun intented. Throw my vote into the "fuck fuck fuck religion" camp. It aint my moral values.
posted by fillsthepews at 8:50 AM on November 3, 2004

This bush .... it vibrates??
posted by devbrain at 8:50 AM on November 3, 2004

Kerry conceded, before he voted against it! Oh, wait.
posted by dagny at 8:50 AM on November 3, 2004

. . . _ _ _ . . .
posted by shoepal at 8:51 AM on November 3, 2004

So take a few days to rest up. Hope that Move On and the other other groups have the foresight and money to start next week with spot ads that remind everyone what these guys said and every time they fuck up or every time they act as if they got an overwhelming mandate to act in their own interests there is something to keep the congress and White House somewhat accountable. Hope that there are smart and intelligent people in each congressional district that can immediately working to change the balance of congress in 06 to stop what appears to likely be an attempt to radically change the direction of this nation to an even more socially conservative and business friendly country that I'm convinced will have the US economically hostage to China India and Japan within 50 years. When the next terrorist attack occurs make sure to point out that they failed in their promise to keep us safe. (how anyone can say that is beyond me) When all the pending scandals and dirty tricks start emerging make sure that the public understands that these methods are not acceptable. When they try to legislate rules that further consolidate their power and the ability of big money to own the system get pissed. Get some ads on TV. If its not on TV its not real. The 4th estate has been neutered by the corporate ownership of all news outlets. To change the direction is going to take commitment and creativity. unfortunately I don't think much of that exists any more. I hope I'm wrong.
posted by mss at 8:51 AM on November 3, 2004

It's been said by those of us outside America that we hate the American government, we don't hate the American people. That was true. In 2000, Bush did not win the popular vote. He campaigned on a platform of compassionate conservatism and uniting the country. Americans who did vote for Bush can hardly be blamed for not realising what they were voting for.

As far as I'm concerned, all that changed yesterday. Americans (collectively) stuck their middle finger up at the rest of the world and I hope the rest of the world does the same back.

The American people looked at the record of Bush and decided it was worthy of re-election. For that, the American electorate has my utter contempt.
posted by salmacis at 8:52 AM on November 3, 2004

I apologize in advance for the smug gloating that will come from the Republican party.

The Lord gives, the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.
posted by aaronshaf at 8:52 AM on November 3, 2004

a great big FUCK YOU.

.
posted by bob sarabia at 8:53 AM on November 3, 2004

FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCKITY FUCK FUCK


damnit. i still don't feel any better.
posted by Stynxno at 8:53 AM on November 3, 2004

so what happens? will they continue counting the votes? what happens if in a couple of weeks the final vote count shows that kerry took ohio by a slim margin?

is conceding the same as dropping out?
posted by centrs at 8:53 AM on November 3, 2004

Something worth pondering on : more or less 16% of the total american population was enough to effectively (even if indirectly) decide the next four years of government administration (house,senate,presidency) for 100% of the population, almost 300 million people.
posted by elpapacito at 8:53 AM on November 3, 2004

fuck.
posted by H. Roark at 8:53 AM on November 3, 2004

Hooray!
posted by gyc at 8:55 AM on November 3, 2004

salmacis - that sucks. 40 something percent of voters did not vote for him, and that's just the feelings of the people that actually came to the polls. Dont judge all of us by that, its not fair. There is a lot of us that feel the way you do. Dont fucking forget that.
posted by fillsthepews at 8:56 AM on November 3, 2004

can anyone give me more information on the whole "the youth vote didn't mean shit" thing. I'd like to know more about it.

Also, you can count me in with the people that now hate america. And all the smug bastards around me gloating right now make me want to firebomb something.
posted by bob sarabia at 8:57 AM on November 3, 2004

LOL


I ♥ MetaFilter!
posted by Steve_at_Linnwood at 8:58 AM on November 3, 2004

"kerry's done the right and honorable thing"

That's debatable. He's done the convenient thing. Did he even want to win in the first place? Does this guy get excited about anything?

I don't know if Hillary could do anything, she's not a great speaker (although better than Kerry). She does not excite many Dems, but she sure gets the Repubs into battle mode. We need a stealth candidate. We can unveil his/her identity the day before the election, then they won't have time to define him/her.

Ok, I'm losing it.

WaaaAAaaaAAaaaah!
posted by Outlawyr at 8:59 AM on November 3, 2004

salmacis, don't despair too much...after all, if you guys are ever on the verge of being taken over by another country, we'll still jump in and save your asses.

elpapacito: yep -- that's how it works. It worked in 1992 and 1996 for Clinton, and in fact for virtually every other President. It's ALWAYS that way: once you account for only the eligible voters, and then whittle it down to those who actually vote, and then split the voting in 2 or 3 ways, well -- you're always going to have a minority of all Americans choosing the government. Why do you seem particularly upset with this concept following this election? Or were you just as baffled and/or angry following '92 and '96?
posted by davidmsc at 9:00 AM on November 3, 2004

The American people looked at the record of Bush and decided it was worthy of re-election

You do realize we're talking about a rather small margin here, right?

And enough with the "now-I-hate-America" bullshit. There are still plenty of us here prepared to defend our country against theocrats and nutjobs (even if that means 51% of the population).
posted by uncleozzy at 9:01 AM on November 3, 2004

What a fucking quitter.
posted by adampsyche at 9:02 AM on November 3, 2004

I can try to be optimistic about this, right? Right?

sigh....

To the rest of the world: Sorry. But on the + side, this will unify you and make you less dependent upon the US, which in the end will be a good thing (for you and probably the world in general. Just not for US).
posted by dig_duggler at 9:03 AM on November 3, 2004

According to NPR, only 1 in 10 of the 18 to 25 year olds voted. Hope you like the desert, kids.
posted by JoanArkham at 9:03 AM on November 3, 2004

can anyone give me more information on the whole "the youth vote didn't mean shit" thing.

10% turn out among eligible voters, aged 18-24. KIDS SUCK.
posted by PinkStainlessTail at 9:03 AM on November 3, 2004

salmacis - that sucks. 40 something percent of voters did not vote for him, and that's just the feelings of the people that actually came to the polls. Dont judge all of us by that, its not fair. There is a lot of us that feel the way you do. Dont fucking forget that.

Go fuck yourself, Yankee bastard.

(OK, that was a joke...)

Yes, I know the situation, and I feel desperately sad for all those moderate Americans who have to put up with at least four more years of idiocy.

However in my mind there is a shift. Instead of "this American is a good guy, unless I know this is not the case" I can't help but feel "this American is a complete idiot who gets what he deserves - unless I know this is not the case". The burden of proof has changed.

I hope this feeling doesn't last.
posted by salmacis at 9:03 AM on November 3, 2004

god damn kids!
posted by bob sarabia at 9:04 AM on November 3, 2004

Hey Joanie.
posted by PinkStainlessTail at 9:04 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by Mr Stickfigure at 9:04 AM on November 3, 2004

Some 1.5 million people voted in Florida who did not vote last time. Of those, 900,000 went to Bush, and 600,000 to Kerry.

Can someone tell me how 60% of new, previously unmotivated voters voted for Bush? This is a serious question, because I really can't figure out why.
posted by eas98 at 9:05 AM on November 3, 2004

So, Aaronshaf... happy your particular set of superstitions will be represented at the cost of stability in the entire world?
posted by jon_kill at 9:05 AM on November 3, 2004

I still think the votes were rigged.
posted by Peter H at 9:06 AM on November 3, 2004

.

IMPEACH THE FUCKING CHIMP
posted by DenOfSizer at 9:06 AM on November 3, 2004

Sal - Be sad for us. Seriously. I need a hug, badly. But dont forget there are still a LOT of people here who arent completely with heads up their butts. I dunno. We will try. I dont want to raise kids here though, if it doesnt change. But dont get all "RAAAAGE FUCK ALL AMERICANS" because it doesnt help us :(
posted by fillsthepews at 9:06 AM on November 3, 2004

I think that there may be surprises in Bush's second term, and not the surprises people are predicting. I believe he will actually run (somewhat) to the center to preserve his legacy. Now that he can't be re-elected, I think we'll see a Bush that is more like his father then he has been, which is to say more sober and accountable. Look for Ashcroft to exit and for Bush to act more like he did as Governer, which is to be solidly conservative, but to support some middle-of-the-road stuff as well.

However, the Republicans in the House and Senate are going to go hog wild, which in my opinion is where the real danger to the country is.I don't think Bush has been a very good president, but I'm not that afraid of his second term... he is part of the political aristocracy and wants to preserve his family and his place in history. But the newly elected Republicans in the Congress have no such desires, and really do want to shake up the system in significant ways, without regard to the fact that their brand of conservatism is not the majority view of the electorate.
posted by cell divide at 9:06 AM on November 3, 2004

.
posted by madamjujujive at 9:06 AM on November 3, 2004

Why despair? Sit back and watch, instead. Remember that, with a Republican President, a Republican Congress, and a right-leaning Supreme Court, they have no one to blame but themselves when it goes to hell due to a falling dollar, rising oil prices, and flat-lining foreign investment.

You think this is bad? Wait until the rush hits. The stock market's already ballooning.
posted by FormlessOne at 9:07 AM on November 3, 2004

sniffle sniffle I'll wheeze be ok
posted by jeblis at 9:08 AM on November 3, 2004

what salmacis said.
posted by mr.marx at 9:08 AM on November 3, 2004

It's clear to me that we're in the midst of a right-leaning cycle that may last quite a while.

But setting this and other disapointments aside, it's worth remembering that, as imperfect as it is, the American system still enables one of the most successful peaceful transitions of power the world has seen.
posted by o2b at 9:08 AM on November 3, 2004

cell divide: you're living in a dreamworld.
posted by keswick at 9:09 AM on November 3, 2004

As far as I'm concerned, all that changed yesterday. Americans (collectively) stuck their middle finger up at the rest of the world and I hope the rest of the world does the same back.

I absolutely sympathise, but you're wrong. First off, many people didn't vote for Bush. Second, some of the people who did vote Bush may not have been entirely clear what they're voting for - let's face it, the American media has done a piss poor job.

So let's not desert our friends who know what a shitheap Bush is. Maybe those working class and middle class people who voted Bush and will get totally screwed (again) because they were too scared and manipulated to know any better will eventually see what's happening behind the curtain. And once they come round, we don't want to be showing them our middle fingers.
posted by dodgygeezer at 9:09 AM on November 3, 2004

I can tell you, in an odd sort of tragic irony, I woke up more alive (furious, angry, hostile) but more alive clear-headed and motivated than I've been in a long time.

A great big FUCK YOU to everyone.
posted by Peter H at 9:10 AM on November 3, 2004

I still think the votes were rigged.

What you tell us three times is true? ;-)

Peter I'm truly sorry, but it's over. Bush has it. We've got a few rebuilding years ahead of us.
posted by PinkStainlessTail at 9:10 AM on November 3, 2004

Why despair? Sit back and watch, instead

maybe your right. maybe they'll fuck everything up so badly that dems will win next time. i'll be sitting back and watching from canada though.
posted by bob sarabia at 9:10 AM on November 3, 2004

ha, FUCK YOU to that, PinkStainlessTail!
posted by Peter H at 9:11 AM on November 3, 2004

The lad's got spirit, I'll give him that.
posted by PinkStainlessTail at 9:11 AM on November 3, 2004

eas98: Florida has millions of Evangelical voters-- part of Rove's brilliant strategy was to get them to vote, as many did not vote last year. They are hyper-motivated since 9/11 and really got excited about the Iraq war. I would bet that a fair portion of those new voters were Evangelical Christians.
posted by cell divide at 9:12 AM on November 3, 2004

oh ye of little faith. it's obvious that god approves, he even sent us a sign.

*cough*
posted by ZippityBuddha at 9:13 AM on November 3, 2004

Peter H, take a break for a few days, on me.

Did everyone notice the top logo image? The one that says "I voted and it totally sucked"? Funny right? Because I needed a laugh today, somehow, someway.
posted by mathowie at 9:13 AM on November 3, 2004

davidmsc: Again like in the other thread I think you're jumping to conclusion. I just said what I said. Could it be that because
of the last few months of propaganda and spinning and counterspinning you see every statement as a personal attack or as
an attack to a voting system ? Relax, it's over at least for a year.

Or were you just as baffled and/or angry following '92 and '96?
Where do I express baffling or anger at the result of this election ? Again, could it be that you're just jumping to your
own, personal conclusion, which I respect as individual opinion even if it's factually baseless ?
posted by elpapacito at 9:14 AM on November 3, 2004

To those in America who are in the minority, take cover, and stay strong.

WTF does that mean? take cover from what, stones, bullets, insults? What minority, who minority, and then "stay Strong" like your like some air raid warden handing out rubbish can lids during an attack....but TOMMY there is no air raid. At least not "here".

You dems could not even steal the election. And now, the news pundits are talking "civil war" within the democratic party. HA. civil war....what a joke...like voting for nader.

and poor daschlehound, may he slink into reading books on tape. he can start with "Great Expectations"....gees, he's like something out of "The Night Gallery"

McCain and Rudy in 08'.

4 MORE YEARS COLONEL.

As far as I'm concerned, all that changed yesterday. Americans (collectively) stuck their middle finger up at the rest of the world and I hope the rest of the world does the same back.

Trust me sunshine, when we stick out fingers, you'll know it.... and hey, it was a close race but you lump all americans into some collective and then you wish the "rest of the world" would do the same (finger waving)...gee, your bright.

GLOAT FUCKING GLOAT BABY Because this is the most powerful presidency, barring General Washington, the world has ever seen. We control the Senate, the Executive, Congress and soon the "Supremes"... we have a majority of republicans as governors.
posted by clavdivs at 9:14 AM on November 3, 2004

I want to know, will the vote still be counted in Ohio? The provisional ballots, the absentee ballots, etc? Or do they just throw all that in the wastebasket?
posted by zebra_monkey at 9:14 AM on November 3, 2004

Actually, more than 75% of Americans did not vote for George Bush, so this patronizing nonsense about idiot Americans who deserve whatever they get should be taken as the vile and spiteful garbage that it is. Even if everyone voted for Bush, just shut up already. Everyone knows how superior Canadians and Belgians and whomever else feels to Americans, no matter who's in office. But, keep up the paternalism and veiled threats, non-Americans, if that's how you think you can influence this or any administration.
posted by loquax at 9:15 AM on November 3, 2004

will they continue counting the votes?

Yes, not just in Ohio, but in every state. It'll be a week or two before official tallies are released, as every state evaluates the legitimacy of each individual provisional ballot.

what happens if in a couple of weeks the final vote count shows that kerry took ohio by a slim margin?

Then Kerry wins. It won't happen, though, so don't get your hopes up. Bush's lead in Ohio is too large to be overcome by the provisional ballots. (I'm talking realistically here, not theoretically possible, so don't go complaining that Bush's lead is currently X but there are X+1 provisional ballots.)

is conceding the same as dropping out?

No, conceding carries no legal significance whatsoever. The person who gets a majority of the electoral vote wins; not the person who receives a concession from his opponent.
posted by DevilsAdvocate at 9:15 AM on November 3, 2004

There are going to be sooooo may great internet cartoons over the next four years.
posted by XQUZYPHYR at 9:15 AM on November 3, 2004

The Lord gives, the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

Is this "Lord" something that we would need an established religion to know about?
posted by PrinceValium at 9:17 AM on November 3, 2004

Wow. I think I've got to stay away from here for a day or two. The overwhelming stench of despair and, worse, surrender, is making me ill. Someone call me after the poisoned Kool Aid has gone around the table.
posted by scarabic at 9:17 AM on November 3, 2004

well it looks like someone is happy.

posted by H. Roark at 9:18 AM on November 3, 2004

mathowie: yeah I noticed the totally sucked :) Guess that's a good way to deal with dissatisfaction, way better then banging head on the wall or laughing at other people belittling them with their "victory" ; it's not "their" to begin with :P but ssshhh don't tell them.
posted by elpapacito at 9:18 AM on November 3, 2004

What a bunch of frickin' whiners. Jeez, why can't all the libs just lose with a smattering of dignity and grace? The people spoke. And loudly. Deal with it for now, and gear up for 2008.

Look, the US economy is too large to turn the train on a dime. Any changes to the status of just about anything decided upon by Congress takes years to accomplish. Bush will wreck very few lives here on Metafilter based on any single policy decision. In fact, you will have a far greater chance of having an individual issue affected by State or Local government.
posted by insulglass at 9:19 AM on November 3, 2004

Well, at least irony isn't dead. The world anal gangbang record was broken yesterday. 101, no lube. Um, nsfw.
posted by adampsyche at 9:19 AM on November 3, 2004

If there was real democracy, California would form its own state. We've had enough of this tyranny of the majority crap, and we're tired of the fact that the only presidents that the whole nation can accept have to be members of the Country Bear Jamboree.

Truth be told, the election was lost in most parts of the United States largely on the premise of two words.

Massachusetts liberal.

...and that's not because there's anything wrong with Massachusetts liberals. People in California are willing to listen to anyone in America and will support them if they're worthy, regardless of accent.

Rather, it's because a bunch of people in the "Red Zone" are xenophobic, intolerant fucks.

Good luck edjumacatin' those masses...
posted by insomnia_lj at 9:19 AM on November 3, 2004

Well said, scarabic. See ya in a few days . . .
posted by JeffK at 9:19 AM on November 3, 2004

america makes the baby quonsar cry.
posted by quonsar at 9:19 AM on November 3, 2004

Okay, so next steps for the DNC:

1) Lots of handwringing, followed by more of the same. Cross fingers, hope Bush overreaches, and wait for the pendulum to swing.

2) Run to the right, become the mini-me Republicans.

3) Bloodbath. Party implodes, gets replaced by some other group that figures out how to hold on to the pro-choice, anti-war, civil rights people without alienating the keep-America-safe crowd. (Either a third party, or a gingrich-style revolution from within.)

Predictions?
posted by ook at 9:20 AM on November 3, 2004

There are going to be sooooo may great internet cartoons over the next four years.

The truth comes out! XQUZYPHYR has three and a half million votes hidden in his bedroom.
posted by dodgygeezer at 9:20 AM on November 3, 2004

bob sarabia, are you really moving to Canada? I might join you.
posted by wsg at 9:21 AM on November 3, 2004

Jeez, why can't all the libs just lose with a smattering of dignity and grace?

Yeah, cos the Repubs lost with so much dignity in 2000
posted by dodgygeezer at 9:22 AM on November 3, 2004

Pray that the religious right gets their way.
posted by eatitlive at 9:23 AM on November 3, 2004

mathowie: I saw it. And laughed. Thanks.
posted by DrJohnEvans at 9:23 AM on November 3, 2004

Wow, I feel validated as a human being.

Or not.

OK, definately not.

Predictions:

JANUARY: The beginning of the Supreme Court appointment fights.

FEBRUARY: Bush asks for another ~$100 billion for Iraq.

MARCH: I turn 30, so the world ends. OK, if it doesn't end, it will be around this point that another tax cut is proposed. Because either we need one to stimulate the economy, or the economy is doing so well that we should give money back to the people who can spend it the best.

APRIL: Dow drops to below 8000. It will be either because of a terror strike, oil issues, the overloading of national debt, or something else. It won't be pretty, and I don't know how the non-Republicans get blamed for this one.

MAY: American soldier #2000 dies in Iraq. This could happen in March, if the current trends hold, but I am being careful here. There will be a brief mention, maybe 2 minutes on CBS and ABC news, and a poll which shows that 60% of Americans feel that we need to do "something" to fix this situation....
posted by andreaazure at 9:23 AM on November 3, 2004

I blame the gays. Without the gays there would be no homophobes. Without the homophobes the voter turn out would have been lighter.
posted by DBAPaul at 9:24 AM on November 3, 2004

Can someone tell me how 60% of new, previously unmotivated voters voted for Bush? This is a serious question, because I really can't figure out why.

God, guns and gays, baby. God, guns and gays.

I so despair for this country.
posted by snarkywench at 9:24 AM on November 3, 2004

Bush voter turnout
posted by DBAPaul at 9:25 AM on November 3, 2004

(mathowie, I saw the logo and laughed. It was appreciated.)
posted by occhiblu at 9:25 AM on November 3, 2004

"We couldn't form a plausible opposition to those who act as if the future doesn't exist."
posted by jeblis at 9:25 AM on November 3, 2004

What a sad day. Hatred and ignorance have won again. And we get to watch these bastards push our country farther down the fucking toilet for four more years, as they line their pockets not only with our money, but with our stolen hope.

*weeping, weeping*
posted by Kafkaesque at 9:25 AM on November 3, 2004

OK, I am off for a pitcher of G&Ts.

Goodnight everybody.

and that'sh how it wahs...
posted by erratic frog at 9:25 AM on November 3, 2004

Fuckity fuck fuck.

Thanks a lot, homophobic backwards selfish idiotic warmongering busybody bible-thumping asshole hicks of America, for pissing all over the principles the country was actually founded on. You know, that little "freedom" thing.
posted by Foosnark at 9:26 AM on November 3, 2004

Some 1.5 million people voted in Florida who did not vote last time. Of those, 900,000 went to Bush, and 600,000 to Kerry.

It starts with a D
but it ain't Democracy

D-I-E-BOLD -- DIEBOLD!
posted by namespan at 9:26 AM on November 3, 2004

This thread needs background music. I suggest 'America, FUCK YEAH! (bummer mix)'
posted by darukaru at 9:27 AM on November 3, 2004

So insomnia, do you mean the California of Nixon, Reagan and Schwarzeneggar, the California where 4.5 million people voted for Bush in 2004? The California that voted for Ron and Dick twice (even when Texas voted for Humphries), Bush Sr. in '88 and even Ford in '76? That California?
posted by loquax at 9:27 AM on November 3, 2004

It's great to see all the MeFi conservatives celebrating so gleefully. Really. Mazel tov. You won. How wonderful for you. Of course, it's not so wonderful for my almost three year old daughter. We've been at war for her entire life, and now it's going to be at least another four years before she'll know anything even slightly resembling peacetime. So, you know, thanks, for your blind support of a president who isn't making her future any better. How proud you must be.
posted by Ruki at 9:29 AM on November 3, 2004

With the GOP's leads in the House and Senate, even if Kerry won he'd have been a lame duck, which would have put the Dems off more in 2008.

I hope that Bush acts more like he did in Texas and works more to the middle rather than pander to special interests.

We should move on and look forward to what really matters, such as Pedro's filing for free agency.
posted by robocop is bleeding at 9:29 AM on November 3, 2004

I feel compelled to relay the same advice I gave my wife this morning: take your frustrations about all this (if you're upset about it), identify a cause or two you feel strongly about, figure out which major lobbying/527/whatever organization goes about fighting for it in ways with which you agree, then actively support it. Chances are, if you voted for Kerry (or even if you voted for Bush) there are issues like women's rights, the environment, freedom of expression, a balanced budget, etc., that will be threatened over the next four years, primarily by stacking the deck in the Supreme Court.

Clearly this country is more ideologically conservative than many of us had hoped, but this does not mean that we have to quietly give up the right to choose, the right to express ourselves, a cleaner environment, or whatever issue you feel passionate about. If you care deeply about a particular cause but disagree with the tactics of a certain organization, chances are you can find a group you feel worth supporting with your time and money. They may need it now more than ever.
posted by arco at 9:29 AM on November 3, 2004

ya, thanks for the logo thingie, mathowie - made me feel a little less like a stranger in a strange land ;-)
posted by madamjujujive at 9:31 AM on November 3, 2004

At least the Daily Show will continue to rock for the next four years.
posted by quibx at 9:31 AM on November 3, 2004

It was a very close thing, after all, and lots and lots of people voted. That is the part that makes me happy.

I remember the election of 1972 (Nixon's second term). My parents bought a TV just to watch the election returns. It was the first time I ever saw my father cry. Later, he was among the many people who adorned their cars with "Don't Blame Me, I'm From Massachusetts" stickers.

I am sad to discover that there are slightly more people in the US who disagree with me about what is really important than there are who agree with me about what is really important.

I am annoyed because now I feel like I will have to invest a great deal of energy and time in advocating for causes that are important to me (repealing the Patriot Act, ensuring access to safe and legal abortion, keeping "Jefferson's wall" in place between church and state) that I would have felt confident a Kerry administration would have advocated for.

And I certainly hope that all the votes in Ohio are counted, just because it would be terribly unfair to those people who waited in line for six hours if they weren't. Even though it's not going to change anything, I guess, it's still better to know.
posted by Sidhedevil at 9:32 AM on November 3, 2004

AW FUCK

Planet of the Ape, here we come
posted by twistedonion at 9:33 AM on November 3, 2004

YAY! IT'S OVER!

I'm disappointed that Bush won, sure.

But it appears that voter turnout was remarkably high, that hijinks at the polls were minimal, and that the count is honest.

The citizens of the United States have, for better or worse, made a clear decision. That's something to celebrate, especially in comparison to the last election.
posted by five fresh fish at 9:33 AM on November 3, 2004

I vote for bloodbath.

The Democratic party has to start over from the ground up.

Liberal senators from Massachusetts are un-fucking-electable! It's amazing Kerry did as well as he did.
posted by mrhappy at 9:33 AM on November 3, 2004

I now hate America for the first time in my life. Thanks, everyone.

Don't thank everyone, just 52% of that portion that managed to vote.

I understand and share your frustration, n9, but attitudes like that have been sinking us for a while.

This just makes me sad. Clearly I don't belong to this country anymore, if I ever did

Then half the country dosen't belong here either. Pull yourself together, Mary. If a squeaker of a Republican victory has you this weepy, the landslides during the Reagan years would've had you shitting yourself and committing suicide.

Fatalism is a luxury we can't afford.
posted by jonmc at 9:34 AM on November 3, 2004

No seriously -- I'm not kidding about the Diebold thing. Read electoral-vote.com, where Tannenbaum says what I'm thinking:

"One thing that is very strange is how much the exit polls differed from the final results, especially in Ohio. Remember that Ohio uses Diebold voting machines in many areas. These machines have no paper trail. Early in the campaign, Diebold CEO Walden O'Dell, a GOP fundraiser, promised to deliver Ohio to Bush. He later regretted having said that."

First thing on *any* opposition agenda: these things have to be erased, and I mean *have to be*.
posted by namespan at 9:35 AM on November 3, 2004

And I'm going to make a t-shirt that says "I went to the polls, and all I got was this lousy President" on it.
posted by Sidhedevil at 9:35 AM on November 3, 2004

If there was real democracy, California would form its own state. We've had enough of this tyranny of the majority crap, and we're tired of the fact that the only presidents that the whole nation can accept have to be members of the Country Bear Jamboree

Does that include your Govern-ator? Moderate, socially liberal Republican - yes - but still a member of the "jamboree team." He stood up at the convention and talked about how Bush was going to "termin-ate terra-ism!" On a county-by-county basis, California is mostly red. This is not a state-vs-state situation, it's an urban and college town vs. rural and suburban one. Hell, even here in Texas, the cities are overwhelmingly Democrat. Saying it is a state-by-state divide really paints things with too broad a brush.
posted by sixdifferentways at 9:35 AM on November 3, 2004

I don't see Hilary Clinton as a viable POTUS candidate. She is the woman that people love to hate. And Obama as running mate? Too young/new I think. Add to that his race, you get the picture.
Not to say that these things are not one day going to happen, but it just won't happen in giant stides.

Both parties need to field candidates a bit more moderate I think. I really, REALLY want to see the Republicans stop going for the GOD vote too. GOD is not an issue in a political race. Everyone in this country can worship in their own way, and I do not care to know about it.

Both parties need to start working for this country, and stop focusing on themselves so much. Nothing disgusts me more than all the bickering between parties.

I call again, for a viable 3rd party candidate. If not for POTUS, then for the house and the senate. If 3rd party candidates could start taking seats in congress, it would upset this 2 party system that has evolved into the mess we have today.

Neither candidate in this election deserved to be nominated. A giant douche and a turd sandwich just as South Park depicted.
posted by a3matrix at 9:36 AM on November 3, 2004

Has Michael Moore done Hara Kari yet?
posted by ParisParamus at 9:36 AM on November 3, 2004

And one good outcome of this for EVERYONE is that maybe:

a) people will stop listening to the damn exit polls; and
b) the media will stop trying to call the election the moment the first East Coast polls have closed.
posted by Sidhedevil at 9:37 AM on November 3, 2004

Simply put, it was the candidate. Stiff, sour, serious, and desparately in need of a mass communications course. I truly believe Howard Dean would have won this election, nutty as he is. At least he had passion, expressed hope, and you knew where he stood. I'm sorry, but John Kerry was a Dud. I voted for him, but man did I wish there was a Bill Clinton or someone else who clould claim the title "A Man From Hope."

The other lesson from this (I've said it a million times here to sneers) is that Bushate does not resonate with moderate voters. It's not a platform on which to build a campaign, and you shouldn't fall into the trap of thinking that everyone feels the same way you do.
posted by pardonyou? at 9:38 AM on November 3, 2004

So the America first, flag waving jingoism and Newspeak of the Bush administration will continue for next four years. Note to the Dems, remember, never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups.
posted by lola at 9:38 AM on November 3, 2004

And I'm going to make a t-shirt that says "I went to the polls, and all I got was this lousy President" on it.

I'll buy one. But I would buy one regardless of who won.
posted by a3matrix at 9:38 AM on November 3, 2004

Chilling perspective on things Ruki. How depressing...

I bet young celebrating republicans parents are preparing their offsprings for war (it certainly is part of the celebration) -- because they DO put your money were there mouths are, dont they?

We'll keep a tab on them -- we wouldn't want them to be un-patriotic because they forgot, that would be a disaster.
posted by NewBornHippy at 9:38 AM on November 3, 2004

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

So I'm looking for a group of people whose lifestyle I don't like and I'm going to work hard to deny them their basic rights. Woo-hoo! This is kinda fun.
posted by strangeleftydoublethink at 9:38 AM on November 3, 2004

[this is terrible]
posted by moift at 9:39 AM on November 3, 2004

Wait, you people are unhappy? Metafilter is a liberal hangout? SAY IT ISN'T SO!
posted by psychotic_venom at 9:39 AM on November 3, 2004

Thank you pardoyou? I believe you have captured my sentiments accurately.
posted by a3matrix at 9:39 AM on November 3, 2004

The Democrats are so over. And the implications of that are mind boggling.
posted by Fupped Duck at 9:39 AM on November 3, 2004

I feel compelled to relay the same advice I gave my wife this morning: take your frustrations about all this (if you're upset about it), identify a cause or two you feel strongly about, figure out which major lobbying/527/whatever organization goes about fighting for it in ways with which you agree, then actively support it. Chances are, if you voted for Kerry (or even if you voted for Bush) there are issues like women's rights, the environment, freedom of expression, a balanced budget, etc., that will be threatened over the next four years, primarily by stacking the deck in the Supreme Court.

Clearly this country is more ideologically conservative than many of us had hoped, but this does not mean that we have to quietly give up the right to choose, the right to express ourselves, a cleaner environment, or whatever issue you feel passionate about. If you care deeply about a particular cause but disagree with the tactics of a certain organization, chances are you can find a group you feel worth supporting with your time and money. They may need it now more than ever.


I couldn't agree more. Take a day to mourn, or however you deal with this and get constructive. Get involved in both of your party local primaries (if legal in your state), not to poison the well, but so that we, as Americans, have the best of both worlds to pick from. If you are unhappy with the way things are going, try to change them. Reach out across party lines and try to connect. Bridge the gap. If (like me) you think many people just don't understand many politician's stances on issues and are easily manipulated, try to educate them w/out being an ass. Don't just get pissed off and moan. Do something.

You have to keep trying.
posted by dig_duggler at 9:39 AM on November 3, 2004

pardonyou? -- I couldn't agree more.
posted by psychotic_venom at 9:40 AM on November 3, 2004

Can someone tell me how 60% of new, previously unmotivated voters voted for Bush?

Undoubtedly they heard that the Democrats were making a big push to beat them, and decided that this year would be a good year to make sure they went to the polls.
posted by kindall at 9:42 AM on November 3, 2004

This thread needs background music. I suggest 'America, FUCK YEAH! (bummer mix)'

Here you go. And if you need the original...
posted by mathowie at 9:42 AM on November 3, 2004

Or invest in Halliburton.
posted by strangeleftydoublethink at 9:42 AM on November 3, 2004

Ok, here's some gallows fun for the whole family.

What's the next four years gonna look like?

Obviously:
* Permanent repeal of the estate tax
* Permanent tax-cuts
* At least one young Republican Supreme Court justice
* At least partial privatization of Social Security

And perhaps:
* Overturning Roe v. Wade
* Ban on flag-burning
* Public school prayer ("quiet time")
* Something bad with teh gay

And just possibly:
* Iraqi elections go Fuck-Shit, chaos and civil war ensues
* Nuclear Stand-off / invasion with North Korea
* Da Draft (rename to something nicer, like the Patriotism Unleashes Strength, Solidarity, and Yunity act.)

Did I miss anything?
posted by Civil_Disobedient at 9:43 AM on November 3, 2004

If a squeaker of a Republican victory has you this weepy, the landslides during the Reagan years would've had you shitting yourself and committing suicide.

Barring 2000, this was the closest election since 1976.

The Democrats are so over. And the implications of that are mind boggling.

The Democrats somehow survived Reagan/Bush I, and the Republicans somehow survived Clinton. Two-party politics isn't going away in America--or moving forward, either.
posted by DaShiv at 9:43 AM on November 3, 2004

Clearly this country is more ideologically conservative than many of us had hoped, but this does not mean that we have to quietly give up the right to choose, the right to express ourselves, a cleaner environment, or whatever issue you feel passionate about.

Arco, you left out Civil Rights. Here's the one issue where the Democrats are more in touch with most Americans than the Republicans. How would the gay marriage debate have been different if Dems had stood up for the Right to Marry as an essential civil liberty? Instead we got a sophistic defense of the separate-but-equal "civil unions."
posted by eatitlive at 9:44 AM on November 3, 2004

From the electoral-vote.com site:

Again, if you are a senior majoring in computer science and are seriously thinking of leaving the country due to the election results, you might be interested in my international English-language Masters program in parallel and distributed computer systems. If you are a faculty member in computer science, I would be very grateful if you would go to that Website and download and print the poster (a PDF file) and pin it to a bulletin board where potential students might see it and mention it in any classes you teach to CS seniors. Thank you.

I found that rather amusing in a funny way. Jus' sayin.
posted by Mossy at 9:44 AM on November 3, 2004

My form of protest is to wear black. We're mourning the death of our nation's democracy, wear mourning clothes.

Wear black and let's start making the preperations to come back stronger, better and with a clearer message to the populance.

Of course, with four more years and no re-election issues to worry about, Bush may just blow us all to hell before then.

Its a sad, sad day. But let's look forward and start planning for next time. Giving in is the same as quitting and quitting means those bastards win.
posted by fenriq at 9:44 AM on November 3, 2004

YAY ... it's nice to know that 50% of the population is actually dumber than average.

Now is the time for the ultra right to put up or shut up.
I want to see those constitutional ammendmensts to ban gay marriage an make sure wimmin folk have them babies!

remember ... It's a punishment from GAWD ... not a child or a choice.
posted by Dillenger69 at 9:45 AM on November 3, 2004

Has Michael Moore done Hara Kari yet?

One of the reasons I was convinced Bush would win is that Moore is a total fucking jinx. Just look at any issue he's touched - every single one has got worse since he documented it. I'd be glad to be contradicted.
posted by dodgygeezer at 9:45 AM on November 3, 2004

Has Michael Moore done Hara Kari yet?

I love the way the wingnuts act as though a Republican victory makes liberals melt into goo or something. John Kerry is still a millionaire Senator. Michael Moore is still going to make high-grossing films. It's like you can't be satisfied Bush won because no one is actually suffering as a result.

If it make you feel better, we'll have tons of time to torture people now, though. You likey the rough stuff, don't you?
posted by XQUZYPHYR at 9:45 AM on November 3, 2004

How soon until the United States is a theocracy?
posted by four panels at 9:46 AM on November 3, 2004

From the NYTM Suskind article a couple of weeks ago:

"I'm going to come out strong after my swearing in," Bush said, "with fundamental tax reform, tort reform, privatizing of Social Security." The victories he expects in November, he said, will give us "two years, at least, until the next midterm. We have to move quickly, because after that, I'l be quacking like a duck."

posted by muckster at 9:47 AM on November 3, 2004

God, I go to sleep (finally) last night, and wake up to find they're not even going to count the votes??? This is very fucked, to put it lightly.

And if NYC's a radioactive crater at the end of these next 4 years (which is now more and more likely), i hope you people all happy about this remember us.
posted by amberglow at 9:47 AM on November 3, 2004

four panels: I foresee a theocracy in Minus Four years from now.


Also, the next four years will bring a new golden age of punk rock. I don't mean the prefab muppets-with-amps shit we've been hearing on the radio for the last decade, but the real thing. And not just punk, but hip hop, jazz, every genre of music (and art in general, we can only hope) is going to start producing a little more dangerous stuff. People who were ignored yesterday will get heard in other ways.

I'd rather it didn't have to be like this, but hey, silver lining.
posted by chicobangs at 9:47 AM on November 3, 2004

Sal - Be sad for us. Seriously. I need a hug, badly.

*hugs* fillsthepews
posted by salmacis at 9:48 AM on November 3, 2004

democracy is a difficult proposition. it's easy to participate when everything goes your way. if you quit when things don't, then you really don't believe in democracy, you like benevolent oligarchies that endorse your views.

people like the president. alot. they forgive his mistakes, or deny them, because of this. he is giving them what they want. if you don't happen to want the same things, reread my first paragraph. then remember, poverty is a choice. national health care is a choice. social liberty is a choice. tax rates are a choice. peace is a choice. you don't like other people's choices. what else is new?
posted by ewkpates at 9:49 AM on November 3, 2004

I now can hear Wall Street salivating over Social Security, wild like hyenas.
posted by four panels at 9:50 AM on November 3, 2004

I love the way the wingnuts act as though a Republican victory makes liberals melt into goo or something.

Well, all the weepy, I'm moving to Canada/My life is over/America hates me boo-hoo isn't doing a lot to counter that impression (yours and a few others commets notwithstanding), is it?

I'm just gonna fininsh my workday, drown my frustrations in a few beers after work and then go back to speaking my mind.
posted by jonmc at 9:50 AM on November 3, 2004

I knew I picked the wrong year to quit drinking.
posted by mr_crash_davis at 9:51 AM on November 3, 2004

Wear black and let's start making the preparations to come back stronger, better and with a clearer message to the populance.

Fenriq, I don't mean to single you out, and I do ask this out of ignorance - how many people bemoaning kerry's loss did more than just vote or blog about it? Any volunteers? Kerry organizers? Electoral officials? Large donators? It's fine and good to wish the DNC gets its act together, but in my books, you need to do more than just vote before you have the credibility required to talk about this election the way many people are today. If you're seriously thinking of leaving the country but were watching the election on TV last night, you need to re-examine either your priorities or your thought process.
posted by loquax at 9:53 AM on November 3, 2004

Where can I find one of these benevolent oligarchies?
posted by strangeleftydoublethink at 9:53 AM on November 3, 2004

What you see is what you get
You've made your bed, you better lie in it
You choose your leaders and place your trust
As their lies wash you down and their promises rust
You'll see kidney machines replaced by rockets and guns
And the public wants what the public gets
But I don't get what this society wants
I'm going underground...
posted by scody at 9:54 AM on November 3, 2004

don't despair too much...after all, if you guys are ever on the verge of being taken over by another country, we'll still jump in and save your asses.

Unless, of course, we're on the verge of taking it over. If Bush can unjustly and unilaterally leverage the US military once, why stop with Afghanistan and Iraq? I hear Korea is nice this time of year...
posted by travis at 9:56 AM on November 3, 2004

Thanks, scody. One of my favorite songs from way back in my skater/punk days in the early Reagan era.
posted by strangeleftydoublethink at 9:57 AM on November 3, 2004

You'll never lose money underestimating the intelligence of the American people. - H.L. Mencken
posted by wsg at 9:57 AM on November 3, 2004

What a glorious day! Thank God we didn't get Kerry. The mainstream media and places like this become such an echo chamber of liberal platitudes it's somewhat amusing to watch the startled reaction when reality and context intrude.
posted by paleocon at 9:58 AM on November 3, 2004

Yunity. Heh.
posted by DrJohnEvans at 9:58 AM on November 3, 2004

And all the smug bastards around me gloating right now make me want to firebomb something.

See, that's just not it. I can only imagine how much more awful this would be if I were still working at one of my old jobs, where people thought wearing a shirt and tie to work meant you were white collar, but you have to let that bile go. It doesn't matter who gets elected if it always going to be that divisive. Which is why I'm so excited about the Republicans holding the presidency, House and Senate. You're depressed now? Wait until we need a new Supreme Court justice.

Fuck me. This was supposed to be a sort of Pandora's Box hopefullness message and I just depressed myself. Suffice it to say it will never be as awful as predicted here, what with the Yeats and the end of the nation and the we're doomed.
posted by yerfatma at 9:59 AM on November 3, 2004

how many people bemoaning kerry's loss did more than just vote or blog about it?

I did! Except for the bemoaning part. I went to the DNC, registered people to vote, told Howard Dean a few things about technology in Vermont, and told people Kerry wasn't a total asshole when he was my Senator in Massachusetts. I voted for a Democrat in my town who won by TWO VOTES to her Republican challenger. I gave the EFF and the ACLU a little money. Can I complain now? Even with the Dems in office it's still been a bitter fight to get anything reasonable done for the poor, the atheists, the hungry or even the rich white gay folks. It was a fight, it is a fight and it continues to be a fight. Arco -- my fellow librarian -- is right on the money, consistent civic engagement is a wonderful thing.
posted by jessamyn at 10:02 AM on November 3, 2004

If anyone wants to know why the Left lost this election, all they have to do is read this thread.


Everyone's fault, but your own.
posted by Steve_at_Linnwood at 10:02 AM on November 3, 2004

It's not really so much about four more years of Bush as it is four more years of Rummy, Asscroft, Cheney, etc. At least it will keep Will Ferrell busy. When's Elf coming out on DVD anyway?
posted by strangeleftydoublethink at 10:03 AM on November 3, 2004

Those who voted for Bush can do no wrong. They support the president because he can do no wrong. America can do no wrong. It's that simple and that ignorant.
posted by disgruntled at 10:03 AM on November 3, 2004

The other lesson from this (I've said it a million times here to sneers) is that Bushate does not resonate with moderate voters.

Since gay hate clearly does resonate with extremist voters to the tune of a few million votes, the task of building an inclusive platform escapes me at the moment. I mean, it's not like meeting Evangelicals half-way at the second trimester is going to work.
posted by Armitage Shanks at 10:04 AM on November 3, 2004

Yeah, Steve. I'm seeing so many posts blaming others, like the one right above yours.
posted by strangeleftydoublethink at 10:04 AM on November 3, 2004

Just to point out--no Republican has won nationwide in a problem-free election since 1988. 2004 has *not* been a clean, problem-free election.

There has not been a Republican landslide since 1984.

U.S. is still split right down the middle, nothing has changed there. Blame whoever for not having a winning strategy, but we are *not* seeing a huge movement of people to the dark side. This is "same old, same old", it sucks, but it is not a sea change by any means.
posted by gimonca at 10:04 AM on November 3, 2004

I'm 18, I voted for Kerry, and Bush getting elected just fucked me over. Remember the good old days when the dollar was actually worth something outside of the US?
posted by Veritron at 10:05 AM on November 3, 2004

Looks like I picked the wrong week to stop sniffing glue.
posted by Cyrano at 10:06 AM on November 3, 2004

Thank You American Voters!
posted by naxosaxur at 10:06 AM on November 3, 2004

McCain/Blackwell, McCain/Voinavich, or McCain/Portman

Ohio will be on the ticket, you heard it here first.
posted by Mick at 10:07 AM on November 3, 2004

Well shit, we'll still keep counting the fucking votes, won't we?

I want to know if his concession means they
won't count the Ohio votes eleven days from now.


Don't forget there are other races to be considered.

Predictions?

This "popular mandate" will allow the Republicans to continue to polarize the country into The Haves and Have Nots while the fundamentalists will push their agenda of religiousizing the American Government. Results: more disillusioned Americans will turn away from the Republican party.

Expect to see:
More old people freezing in their homes when they don't get their federal aid.
More people starving in the streets when they lose their jobs.
More pregnant teenagers who discover that Abstinance Only is not the best form of birth control.
More people dying of tainted meat because the FDA's budget has been cut.
More deformed children being born because mercury levels are allowed to rise.
More people getting cancer because The Superfund no longer exists to clean up abandoned chemical dumps.
More gay-bashing.
More abandoned babies when women find their access to birth control pills, day after pills, and abortions, becoming more restricted.

Do I need to continue?
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 10:08 AM on November 3, 2004

dand: Yeah, Republican house/senate are problably burning up to impeach a Republican President.

Yes, I'm glad to see that you recognize your boys are going to get off scot free -- and especially that Karl Rove won't be prosecuted for the felony outing of a serving intelligence officer, and Republican thugs won't be prosecuted for violations of the voting rights act. I'm sure that all makes you chortle with glee.
posted by lodurr at 10:08 AM on November 3, 2004

Has Michael Moore done Hara Kari yet?

No Paris, because guess what, Bush is going to do it to the entire country.

I hope you're still gloating when we're ass deep in the implementation of the PNAC's mad vision and Grover Norquist's plan to drown government in its own bathwater. "FOUR MORE YEARS" -- of government becoming, slowly, nothing but a political and military machine. That's the vision, right? Only "defense". Glad you support it, Paris.
posted by namespan at 10:08 AM on November 3, 2004

Jessamyn, exactly, I totally agree with you. I wonder how many people on either side really internalize that. Politics isn't a spectator sport. Voting is for the masses. If you truly are impassioned and believe that you are right, you have no excuse for not working for what you want to achieve, as opposed to just wishing for it.

Again, not accusing anyone in particular, I just get the feeling that active campaign workers are in the minority here
posted by loquax at 10:09 AM on November 3, 2004

... Grover Norquist's plan to drown government in its own bathwater.

At some point it's going to dawn on a lot of those people that life as we know it in America -- including the sweet ride that corporations get -- is dependent on "big government."

Either that, or Norquist's corpse will be chucked out with that very bathwater once he's outlived his uselessness...
posted by lodurr at 10:10 AM on November 3, 2004

loquax, no worries, I don't mind being singled out when the discourse is polite and actually trying to find something out instead of just baiting.

I did more than just vote and blog about it. I took part in our local Kerry campaign group. I could have done more and wish I had been able to do more. Next time, I will be able to do more and will.

I've just been thinking, perhaps we need to start a program to move the intelligentsia in the nation back into those rural areas in the south and midwest, repopulate them with thinking voters rather than reactionary queer hatin' voters.
posted by fenriq at 10:11 AM on November 3, 2004

Did I miss anything?

Total Economic Collapse
* currency implosion
* oil shock
* climate-based population migration
* erasure of the middle class
* Starbucks continues to expand, mostly in China

Also, what chicobangs said.
posted by mwhybark at 10:13 AM on November 3, 2004

I've never been so happy not to live in the US before.
posted by tcp at 10:13 AM on November 3, 2004

I believe he will actually run (somewhat) to the center to preserve his legacy. Now that he can't be re-elected...

Ahem.
posted by lodurr at 10:14 AM on November 3, 2004

Here are my thoughts on the election. First up, :( . 2nd, hanging out here and reading other like-minded blogs and websites on the internet(s) has given me the wrong impression of my fellow Americans. I thought there were a lot more people in this country who cared about the issues Civil_Disobedient brought up than those who will applaud and approve the continued erosion of our civil liberties, the ongoing war against a country to secure its assets for our use despite the cost in personnel and dollars and the continued tax breaks for the rich and big business. But I was wrong. America has spoken and I hate what it has said. I hate what that shows the rest of the world about us. My only consolation is that MonkeyBoy and his gang can only get four more years.
posted by Lynsey at 10:14 AM on November 3, 2004

I survived Nixon. I survived Reagan. With the help of... ... ... nah, who needs that, I'll survive Bush, too.

America: please don't make the baby quonsar cry...
posted by zaelic at 10:14 AM on November 3, 2004

Is it okay to slap anyone who pulls the old hackneyed "I'm moving to Canada" bit?
posted by dhoyt at 10:14 AM on November 3, 2004

I've just been thinking, perhaps we need to start a program to move the intelligentsia in the nation back into those rural areas in the south and midwest, repopulate them with thinking voters rather than reactionary queer hatin' voters.

fenriq, that's going to require more than $8/hr jobs in rural areas, and frankly, that's not on the republican agenda.
posted by namespan at 10:17 AM on November 3, 2004

I'm moving to Britain.

No, wait. I already live here.
posted by salmacis at 10:18 AM on November 3, 2004

Religion is regarded by the common people as true, by the wise as false, and by the rulers as useful.
posted by four panels at 10:19 AM on November 3, 2004