So America has a new president. Hurrah. I’m am completely thrilled that the whole election circus is over – it feels like it has been going on foooooooreeeeever with the convoluted rounds and debates and campaigning stretching back over a year.
It has been an interesting process, watching but not being involved. Firstly, wow. The most racist country on the planet has a black president. There were a few poignant words highlighting the fact that Obama would most likely not have been served in Washington restaurants as recently as 40 or so years ago. The second astonishing aspect is that, based on radio, TV and people I’ve spoken to , the vast majority have been positive about his appointment (yes even McCain voters).
The inauguration itself was the worst bit – it felt a bit like Diana’s funeral in reverse – an astonishing outpouring of mass euphoria. The second coming couldn’t have generated more optimism and gushingly saccharine news commentary. I mean, to get things in perspective, the country is engaged in a couple of wars and is in the economic toilet. This is not an easy fix. But change has come. Great. The funniest thing about the event was the bizarre parades that made me think of all those facist processions so favoured by the likes of Mussolini…
Still, at least we’re shot of this chimp.
