As I was driving out to class this evening, I was listening to MPR and I was reminded of the wide cast of characters we've had the privilege to get to know over this insane campaign. Joe Six-Pack, Hockey Moms, Joe The Plumber, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and a whole host of fradulent "mavericks." But the main concept that has been hanging over the election most of all is change. Both candidates are trying to quench the thirsts of the millions that are dissatisfied with what has been. It's all about distancing oneself with Governor Bush. But it all culminates tonight.

My viewing begins appropriately with a look at the voting history of probably the most volatile state of the past few elections, Florida. Wolf Blitzer and Anderson Cooper stumble through their digitized landscape, shouting at huge LCD talking heads and making their predictions of what's to come while acting as Vanna White turning over all the letters we need. Cut to the hopeful supporters of either candidate gathered together one last time to show their support and to watch the plane finally take off or come crashing down. (Vanna White sure has been taking a lot of fire in these live blogs. Would a twelve year old compare it to Carson Daly? I always look at these things as theater more than film--the big sets, the flashing lights, the fact that it lasts three hours... MK)

My entire life of active political awareness have been in the shadow of the Bush administration. Growing up in a society where there is such a devout hatred by many for the powers that be has a swishifying effect on a youngster. But, as Peter Blegvad observes... "In times of protracted peace and relative prosperity, people seem bored and jaded. Calamity brings out the quality in folks." Certainly true for today's climate and the world in which I became politically aware. So I guess a small part of me wants the calamity to continue. It undoubtedly will no matter what outcome, but the continued intense dislike for the powers that be makes living in this country exciting. As much as I want the Demmykrats to take the throne again, I'm worried as to what will happen to the fire in the unsettled's eyes. (That sounds like the book of revelations, Ned. MK)

Reports of the disappointments of the McCain camp are coming in now. How exciting! Pennsylvania goes to Obama. Hoorah! All the CNN projections seem to say that Obama is taking the cake. There's been hardly any mention of the Republicans since I sat down to enjoy a good fight. How mildly disappointing this night has been so far. Hopefully I'm forced to ride back to the wiki tonight once something exciting happens. But for now, it doesn't look good as far as getting some worthy entertainment out of tonight. It's like watching a good suspense film. I guess I'm still waiting for the twist...

"We've waited two years for this, no reason why we can't wait a little longer" - David Axelrod

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