Sunday, November 6, 2016

FBI Turnabouts Further Complicate US Election

FBI Director Comey's October 28th letter to Congress not only undermined the campaign of Hillary Clinton, but also altered the direction of Senate and House elections. There have been millions of early votes in the nine days since Comey's October surprise.
     Before October 28, there had been movement in down-ballot elections. After the announcement, it became apparent that the movement had slowed and congress would most likely go to incumbents. These seats could well remain entrenched despite Comey's "no criminality" announcement this afternoon.
     It is well-known that congressional gridlock has made it almost impossible for President Obama to accomplish the agenda he ran on. This has further disconcerted an unhappy populace. Now even if Clinton were elected, it could be difficult for her to make the kind of progress the US needs, much less fulfill the promises of progressives like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren who have been stumping for her.
     The BBC website has some of the best coverage of the ramifications of  Director Comey's recent actions, in particular a brief analysis, suggesting the FBI and media do "soul-searching...about how this story has played out and been covered":  FBI and Media's Influence on Election.
     I might add that it seems curious that today's FBI announcement came on a Sunday (not weekday), less than 24 hours after Saturday Night Live's opening skit, claiming FBI interference, as well as media obsession with Clinton's emails.* (See right side link: SNL Tries to End Vitriol)
     Political satire has, of course, historically helped "turn tides."

US Radio Program "This American Life" covers the inside-story of why/how Cinton chose and set up a personal email server.  Master of Her Domain.

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