Otis

Correction: What China figured out is that it can act like it doesn't give a fuck what the U.S. says, Bush in particular. But I guarantee you, as the U.S. goes, so goes the world.

For now, anyway.

Bottom line, yes, not all Republicans are created equal. But our two party system has evolved to the point that they might as well be. To get anything done in this country, everyone has to "play ball" or Senators do shit like require the Senate Secretary to read aloud an entire 500 page bill to block a vote as a tantrum because he didn't get his way on something two weeks ago. It's why Republicans used to "forget" to invite minority committee members to meetings.

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Deson

No, China really doesn't give a fuck what the U.S. says and is steadily making the connections necessary to ensure it doesn't have to. Doesn't mean China isn't paying attention and maneuvering as needed but that's just politics as opposed to the genuine concern other countries have.

And yes, the active parts of the parties have reached the point of dogma which is why John McCain has to contort himself to appease them while still trying to keep the Rockefeller and (George) Romney republicans. The label doesn't render one impotent though, just determines whether the mines in the field are taxes and gays or welfare and the war.

And repubs aren't the only ones who played power games, dems did too back in the 80's. Doesn't make either right but neither party is full of saints.

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Hammerfist

What the U.S. should do is become non-interventionist with a dash of isolationism thrown in, specifically the tight borders portion. After the troops are home then they can work to keep out the assholes and the rest of the world deals with their neighbors. That should make for some good world affairs articles.

Avaela

I think ppl should have to pass mandatory literacy and intelligence tests to be able to vote.