B Kean, what an excellent article, except for this final, defeatist line. Why oh why do so many pundits insist on predicting the inevitability of the worst case scenario? It spikes the cortisol levels, but also leads to fatigue and despair.

I wish you and the dozen other thoughtful writers I follow, who truly help shape my thinking, would get on the same page here - that it is never, ever over till Election Day (and sometimes months after that!). In the fight for our democracy, we can’t afford to be part of the problem. Inspire courage, please, never despair.

P.S. - Brian, I’m now doing some political blogging of my own (mostly I’m a travel writer) and I would be pleased if you would consider reading and commenting on my stuff. Thanks).