Perhaps it is a Canadian obsession.
Watching the United States.
We recognize that our trading partner and close neighbour is a nudging nuisance some days. Other days we invite the umbrella of protection that a super power provides.
Most days we just watch the flow of effluence that spills into our country.
In order not to be overcome, we keep careful track of the happenings south of the border.
This year is a good one!
A presidential election is in full swing. And by swing, I mean the pendulum is all over the place.
Two main political parties are vying for recognition – the Democrats and the Republicans.
Their main policy platforms are being played to a plentiful public. Extreme candidates are seeking to rule each party. Their antics are played and replayed as they spar as larger than life political animals. Fighting for the presidency.
We are aware of the flamboyant one who trumps all others. And of the spouse of a former disgraced president. And of the lesser lights whose wattage waxes and wanes.
These fighting foes come to bear on the issues of “the people” from polar opposites.
And the people are left in the middle. Trying to democratically decide which diva to deploy in the battle for the republic. In this fourth year of the cycle, neighbours heat the air with their opinions. Then they are called on to calm the waters once the election is done.
I wonder if this election is more strongly contested than previous elections? A heightened rhetoric is certainly being blasted across the airwaves and internet circuits.
Can a country survive extremes and work together? Civil wars around the world attest to the carnage of extremism. The mettle of a country is found in their pursuit of peace.
The United States desires to be a peacekeeper around the world.
Let us watch carefully over these next few months.
How well they keep the peace within their own borders will be as telling as their pursuit of world peace.
