Blueshift,

Your posts are well-thought-out. I do see one statement that I think needs some historical perspective."Well, I would start by pointing out the unprecedented enthusiasm he has generated as meaningful in this context." There is no doubt, people are nuts about him. But it's not the first time that people have gotten excited about a president or potential one.

Some other past examples of past presidents generating enthusiasm:

Wilson in 1904 <link>

MicKinkley in 1901 <link>

Admittedly, those are way before anyone's time who reads slate, but I just think he's really not all that different than SOME of the past US presidents or candidates who've come before. That being said, if he's elected, I'd be delighted if he solved all he said he wants to.

Thank you for your replies. It's been a pleasure to discuss this with you.