Elections - November 2009

I do not think that the elections relate in any way to Obama. New Jersey has been a mess for years and everyone is hoping that someone different in the office of Governor will make a difference. I actually believe such a person may be coming in the person of Corey Booker. But that will be at least another four years and he still has much to do in Newark.

Virginia is traditionally a Republican state. That it returned to its traditional pattern is no surprise since the Democratic nominee was not that strong.

However, I do think that the Democrats will be in trouble in 2010 and beyond if they do not straighten out their priorities. This outcome is independent of what people think of Obama.

I do not agree with Obama's relative need to try to be inclusive when there is no indication that Republicans want to become part of Obama's vision. Obama was elected President and, as such, he has a right to implement his vision. They should negotiate change within his vision. What I feel bad about is that Obama is not strong enough in pushing for his programs.