It's the day after the 2004 elections and things are looking bleak for those of us whose civil rights are up for grabs. 11 states voted overwhelmingly against gay marriage, some states even included extra measures to make sure nothing resembling same-sex unions would be recognized. The presidential race is still uncertain but looking favorable for the Republicans. I just checked CNN for the latest results and they are showing Bush with 254 electoral votes to Kerry's 252. There are still three states outstanding: New Mexico, Ohio, and Iowa. Ohio is stating they expect to be for Bush and that expectation should give him the race. However, the Kerry campaign is waiting until all provisional and overseas ballots have been accounted for before conceding the race.
Last evening, I got an unexpected call from my dear friend Jenny who is currently living in Boston. She has been fortunate enough to be at the heart of much of this political arena, as much of the Democratic Party's momentum has began in Boston. Although, last evening we did what the current administration never has done, we taled exit strategies. What if the Republicans win? What if my civil liberties are further eroded? What if the ongoing occupation in Iraq turns more of the world against us? What if I don't have a job in the future? What if our country goes bankrupt? What if? Essentially, Canada seemed like an option. I've also been thinking about teaching English overseas but that option may not be as promising as it once was. My friend, Heather, currently lives in Germany and wants to return to the US in the fall of '05. Man, if I had the opportunity she has and the connection to stay away, I would. Maybe it sounds like escapism? Maybe it sounds defeatist? I suppose Democratic pundits and activist would say we have to continue fighting, or that the next four years will really turn this country around. Personally, I'm shocked, dismayed, and depressed that anyone could look back at the previous four years and honestly want more. I don't want anymore.
