Protesters usually get what they deserve, right? Especially if you're from France, or just going on a blind date, or are just at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Yes, it can happen here. Warning, [not safe for Republicans]
Niall Ferguson, my favorite imperialist, argues that perhaps an incompetent Democrat is better for the Republicans than an incompetent Republican. If Kerry wins, the Republicans have a chance in 2008. Otherwise, they'll be slaughtered in 2008 as Bush will continue with his insane policies. Via Crooked Timber.
I, like the writer, think Ferguson underestimates Kerry. Although an FDR who compromises is a pleasant idea, or a Blairite with some political talent, Kerry is the sort of leader who can counterattack the viciousness that reigns in the capital. His investigations have given him an insight into the mechanics of the executive office and the capital; he is attentive to detail, and I suspect that he has a better understanding of the foundations of a stable and just society. He may lack charisma, and he may not speak excellent soundbites [like Edwards] - but the consequences depend more on the architecture of authority his handlers can maintain than on his innate talent.
Still, I'm not as frightened of a Bush victory, anymore. Fortunately, I'm middle class, and I'm not greedy, and I have a job. If anything, I'll just be a bit busier, begging and groveling from rich people to cultivate their noblesse oblige.
And last night - boy, the viciousness was startling. Before me, Baalam the god of the National Security State, and Asherah, the Goddess of tax-cuts, and their willing servants. It was like a revival. I almost succumbed and began to bow down before Cheney and Miller, until I shook my heade to dispell the illusion and saw that they had watched the Democratic convention very closely.