Let's assume for a moment that I wrote this editorial before Kerry conceded the election to Bush. The point I'm making here is still valid after the fact, but as I'm speaking with conjecture, let's just pretend for a moment.

Regardless of the outcome of this election, 49% of this country now feels a burning hatred for 51% of this country, and vice-versa. Forty-nine percent of the nation hates the president with a passion. And I'm not talking about folks who just wouldn't want to have a beer with the guy or who wouldn't want to sit next to him on the train. I'm talking about people who would love to punch the man clean in the chops, given the opportunity.

I'm not much of a history buff, but off the top of my head I can't think of any other time this nation has been so bitterly and angrily divided since the civil war. Senator Kerry asked during his concession speech that we try to put the bitterness of the election behind us, but I just don't see that happening. Wounds take time to heal, whether they be caused by vicious Republicans or slimy Democrats.

We've become brutally polarized in the US. You're either good or you're evil. There's no middle ground. There's no room for discussion. If you're a Democrat, the Republicans want you to be shipped off to Guantanamo after they establish a police state managed by Haliburton and execute all the gays. If you're a Republican, the Democrats are sissies who hate America, love terrorists, and conspire with Osama bin Laden. You're either a baby murderer or a misogynist. You can either love Jesus or hate America. There's nothing in common. There's no compromise. The American moderate is dead.

But this is how those in power want things. When people are polarized, they're easily controlled. The majority can impose its will upon the minority. In this case, Bush has enjoyed a Republican majority in the House, Senate and Supreme court for several years and will continue to do so for at least the next two. The majority and the minority can keep getting elected by scaring their constituents about what will happen if they're not elected. Never mind having rational, balanced discussions about real, serious issues. It's my way or the highway.

(As an aside, one very good thing about total Republican control of all three braches of government is that when things inevitably go to hell in a handbasket, Ann Coulter won't be able to blame it all on liberals.)

It looks like Bush is the victor, but he's got more than his share of damage to contend with. The country has been critically wounded by this election. The effects should not be underestimated.

---Nick

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