Romney and Hillary Clinton win in Michigan. . .
However, the efforts by all — on both sides of the political aisle — to achieve political definitiveness are being firmly rejected by Americans. Republicans and Democrats are not sure what they want in their leader — and this is going to be a fascinating, stressful, long term process.
I’m watching the Democrats debate issues in Nevada tonight, and I have to admit that I’m impressed by the format. I sort of like how cordial everyone is — in fact, it was practically a love fest at the beginning. But it’s a thoughtful way to have a serious discussion with candidates. One thing though — I was disappointed in all of them on the economic issues, including John Edwards — which surprises me, given how sharp his economic team is.
Tomorrow, I’ll be MC’ing an evening for Jacob Heilbrunn who just wrote a book that must be read by those who want to understand the history and impact of neoconservative thinking on America’s national security policy. Adam Bellow, son of Saul Bellow who is featured as well in the Heilbrunn book, will be representing Doubleday at this evening gathering.
And then after that, I’ll be helping to moderate a salon discussion with former Shin Bet Chief Ami Ayalon — who is a dynamic member of Israel’s Labor Party — and a Minister of State in the Israeli government with responsibilities for security.
It’s going to be a busy day tomorrow — but thought I’d share what’s up.
Thanks to all for emailing. Can’t answer it all — though I try. Just a hint. Shorter emails are helpful — because I get hundreds each day. And thanks to those of you clicking PayPal. I owe many a serous debt of gratitude — and after I get done with some Iran incident digging, you’ll hear from me.
For those friending on FaceBook, I love it — very cool template for exchanging stuff.
On the campaigns, it’s going to be a marathon — not a sprint. On the Dem side, I see Hillary and Obama fighting for a long time ahead, even after February 5th — unless a surprise or scandal emerges. I’ll be writing on this more soon — but I’m not sure that the Democratic Party can compete well in the general election without a fusion of effort and interests of them both. That may be bad news for Wes Clark, Ted Strickland, Bill Richardson, Joe Biden, and others. . .more on that later.
And yes, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius will be one of two offering responses after President Bush’s State of the Union address.
More tomorrow.
— Steve Clemons
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