A Fact-Free Election?

by Gary Bauer

We just went through an election where the facts didn't matter. And if you don't believe me, then sit down for this item. Talk show host John Ziegler commissioned a poll by John Zogby to test the knowledge of more than 500 Obama voters in a nationwide survey conducted after the election. The results are shocking. It must be noted upfront that virtually all those surveyed had high school diplomas, and more than half had college degrees. Only 2% of Obama voters earned "perfect or near-perfect scores on a post election test which gauged their knowledge of statements and scandals associated with the presidential tickets."

The Limits of Success - and Failure

by Michael Barone

We Americans are blessed with a history that teaches that things work out right. Our first president set the precedent of relinquishing power he could have had for life and returning to his farm. Two of our greatest presidents were struck down, Abraham Lincoln by an assassin and Franklin Roosevelt by grave illness, at a moment of transcendent victory. Such a history of exceptional leaders is a blessing but also a weakness when things go wrong. Americans were drenched with disillusion for decades after a young president was struck down in 1963, well before his great promise could be fulfilled.

Adrift From Our Past

by S. Michael Craven

Last week my family and I spent four blessed days at my wife's ancestral farm, a beautiful spot located between Navasota and Brenham in historic Washington County known as the birthplace of the Republic of Texas in 1836. The land, possessing rolling hills, tranquil ponds and a plethora of Bluebonnets has been in my wife's family since the mid 19th century. It is a wonderful place rich in nostalgia and strong family roots. I confess that it is one of our favorite places on earth.

Update On Mumbai Attacks

by Gary Bauer

In Monday's report, I lamented the lack of responsible journalism in the reporting on the Mumbai atrocities and specifically the reticence of Big Media to identify who committed these atrocities. Today the Wall Street Journal carried a report that was somewhat helpful.

Bailout or Bust?

by Gary Bauer

The CEOs of America's big three automakers are back in Washington this week again seeking a multibillion dollar bailout. This time they drove, after the PR disaster of flying into town on luxury private jets to beg for money. But if they are coming with their hat in hand and a bit more modestly, it's hard to tell from the price tag of their request. Two weeks ago, they were asking for $25 billion. Now they are asking for $34 billion!

Unemployment Up - Keep Taxes Down!

by Gary Bauer

Those looking for some holiday cheer in the midst of these challenging economic times will be hard pressed to find it in the latest economic news. Unemployment is up to 6.7%, and the November job losses were the largest in a single month since 1974.