The people have spoken; yes, I know it's a cliche, but there are times when only cliches will do and this is one of them. After one of the hardest fought and expensive campaigns in history, we have a new president-elect, Barack Obama. His supporters are, rightfully, feeling mighty good this morning while the opposition's mood is mighty low. Congratulations to the winners - condolences to the losers.
The best news is that we did it again. We got through one of these damn things relatively unscathed, peacefully and on the whole, quietly, and now we can move on. No more ads, no more Robocalls and no more phony debates. Naturally I have some advice for both sides in this historic election - yes, the election of the first black American as president of the United States has to be considered an historic occasion.
I now give both sides my personal formula for getting us through to the next election.
To the losers: For God's sake, whatever you do don't put any of those stupid, "He's not my President" bumper stickers on your cars like the ones I've been seeing for eight years. I cannot tell you how much I hate them. If you're a true patriot, the president will be your president whether you voted for him or not. He is your president even if you disagree with everything he does and everything he is going to do.
If you love your country you'll always want your president to do better, and the good news is that you get to define what that means in your personal equation. If the president does something good, give him credit even if he's from a different party. If he does something bad, try criticizing him with a laser, not a baseball bat. If you do not speak up, just sulk - your voice will not be heard.
To the winners: Enjoy yourselves while you can - in a few short months, all the problems will be yours. Try to have an administration that actually accomplishes things that are good for the nation, not just things that are politically correct or suitable for multimedia presentation. Take a look at some of the opposition's programs and adopt the ones that are good. Start measuring outcomes using hardnosed analysis and discipline and do not go on a frenzy of paying off your supporters. The American government should not be a spoils system with the spoils being the public's tax dollars.
Above all, never forget that although you received more than 62 million votes, your opponents received more than 55 million votes and we are a nation still split down the middle with the swing votes deciding most elections. If you succumb to the radical elements in your party you'll find yourselves on the outside looking in at the next election, it's almost a certainty. A good president needs to be the president of all the people.
To the general electorate: Don't go back to sleep - we are just getting reborn as America is reborn at every election, and don't count on government to solve your every problem; you have more power over your day-to-day lives than government will ever have. Be a good citizen, do your share and find time to participate in your local government. They will do as much as you demand or as little as you allow. Do not allow the government at any level to treat you as an annoying outsider - you are an owner; these folks work for you. Demand openness, honesty, efficiency and accomplishment. Don't settle for grand plans or programs - we've had them for decades - but ask for results and keep track of performance. You cannot win the game of life merely on style-points, in the end one must look at the scoreboard.
Finally, as Americans, we are all in this boat together and we all have an interest in keeping it afloat, if we allow it to sink there will be of little solace in saying, "I told you so."
Marty Richman Got a question or a comment? Send us an email.
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Street Beat: What's your 2009 resolution?
