Cleptomocracy

Well, that was a bummer of an election, wasn't it. Looks like George and his crew stole another one. Bush's Eleven.

I won't be surprised if in the weeks and months ahead, stories of election fraud and voter suppression start to trickle into the media. That said, I don't think Kerry really managed to get a clear, concise message to America. But of course, it's hard to do that when you're facing the politics of smear and lie. It's easier to tell a simple lie than to communicate a complex truth.

But here's my question: Is the election officially over once one candidate concedes? Or is it officially over only when the Electoral College declares a winner? In other words, if by some miracle the 175,000 or so provisional ballots in Ohio turn out to be valid, and 75%-80% for Kerry (perhaps due to concerted efforts by Republican cronies to destroy Democrat registration forms, as we saw reported in Nevada and elsewhere), Kerry would end up winning the state. Would he then be declared the president-elect, or is it too late for that once he has already conceded? Not that I'm holding out hope of that happening, but I'm curious about the procedure. Is a concession an official act, or just a speech?

Anyway, the next four years look like they'll be a challenging time for progressive-minded Americans. As much as I would like it if my friends in the States decided to throw in the towel and come north, their voices are needed in their home country now more than ever. But for those who do want to head north, here's a way you can help.