I have to agree with the assessment around here, more or less.

Word on the street is that Jebby Bush has an inside track to 2008, if he stays low key for a while, as he's considered by many on the Right to be the "smart and savvy" Bush. Though, the question is, as many have pointed out, will America be Bushwhacked by then? My guess is yes, and that we'll see someone else gain in prominence by around 2006.

As for the Democrats, they can't go with Kerry because in my opinion, Kerry was too Moderate a Democrat. This election proved that you can't hope to steal votes from Conservatives because their core is VERY much strengthened, be it from Karl Rove, Religion, or whatever. So, the logical conclusion I draw upon is this: Democrats need to MAKE more Democrats in this country, and the best way to do this is to put as much distance as you can on issues from the Republicans. Instead of being for Civil Unions, be for Gay Marriage, which to me, is logical anyway. Be entirely for stem cell research, be for Universal healthcare, be for pro-choice, ideas that can galvinize the Left and can add more Democrats to the next election.

Hilary Clinton or Howard Dean could be good choices as both have proven firm Liberal stances, which believe it or not, IS NOT A BAD THING. The worst thing the Conservatives have done in this country is demonize the word "Liberal" and make it seem as if there is nothing good Democrats or Liberals represent, when in fact, it's almost always 50/50. Sooner or later, I have to believe this country will realize that an entirely Right/Conservative agenda cannot work, but rather you HAVE to get some Liberal programs in as well to get the country moving forward. If the Democrats can begin right now to expand their base, I think we'll see a very different outcome in 2008.

So, my prediction for 2008:

Republican: Still Up In The Air
Democrat: Hilary Clinton or Howard Dean.

Food for thought: If Clinton is the Democrats pick, I wouldn't be entirely surprised to see the Republicans choose Condy Rice, who could trump the sex card with the race card. It's sad when politics becomes almost a game of "can you top this?"

Take care all.