Sadly, It's All Over

For the last three or four months, in particular, this presidential primary season has been gripping to watch. Last night, however, pretty much finishes things off.

Hillary Clinton gave another performance that didn't really make people want to run out and vote for her, and it seems more and more obvious she isn't going to win Texas and Ohio next Tuesday. Not only does she have zero momentum, but has been the case throughout the primary season (except New Hampshire) Barack Obama is coming on late in the polls. Clinton may end up squeaking one out next Tuesday, but it won't be enough.

This primary season was so much fun because it wasn't over very early. A year ago, some folks wondered if there'd be any drama in Super Tuesday. Of course there was, and on the Democrat side we got an extra month or so to enjoy. It was nice to see things drag on for a while, and the nation got a bit of an education in delegates and conventions.

However, there were still things about it that weren't so hot. Like the sudden decision that Obama was the guy. He was behind Clinton in delegates for months, got a small lead, and suddenly had her on the ropes. Of course, Clinton's campaign struggled as a frontrunner, and was never built to come from behind, and its gaping holes showed in the last month. But how much is one influenced by the other?

Anyway, barring something crazy, we have a nice presidential matchup in McCain vs. Obama. A heroic war veteran who is attractive to independents takes on a young, black agent of hope who is attractive to independents. Is this country ready to elect a black man to the highest office in the land? Very much a possibility. If Obama wins this election, you won't be able to underestimate what it means.

But will he win? Time to round up the usual suspects (hello Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvannia and friends). But in the meantime, it's time to turn toward the state Senate race and get back to presidential politics later.