I lean left normally, but am probably going to sit this one out. The electoral college really makes me grind my teeth.
Just as I am sure a staunch conservative in NY state grinds their teeth every time they see another discussion on "battleground" states.
One man, one vote. Makes sense to me.
In the end though, I take the long view. The real differences between American Presidents is pretty slim. An American is an American is an American (mostly), especially in context overseas. Nixon's policies were pretty much the same as Carter's, just as Clinton's and Reagan's were pretty much the same- they are Americans first, and Conservatives and Liberals second. There is some subtle differences that (should) make a difference to most Americans- but when compared to the rest of the world, the office of the American Presidency overshadows any single personality. So, having a couple of minor quibbles and a lot of faith in the overall system of American democracy, I log my protest by withholding my vote and allow the people that truley care about the personalities involved rather than the system to make their difference.
My hat is off to them. I simply wait for us to get rid of the Electoral college (which, by all indications, will be a long wait).
... oh, and I seriously doubt Colin Powell will be back as Secretary of State, even if Bush wins... so the main motivating factor for me to put my protest behind me and vote (in order to keep Colin Powell) is kinda moot.
