Paul Waldman

During eight years of Republican rule, conservative talkers had to work hard to find people to blame for the nation’s troubles. That won’t be a problem anymore.

After eight years in the wilderness, the reality-based community is back in charge. Now they have a chance to prove that they know what they’re doing.

After eight years of President Bush, we almost don’t know how to function without him — almost. But before we move on, we should pause to remember just what we’re leaving behind.

Whatever problems our politics have, Election Day is a moment when we hope for the future and revel in the solemnity of the democratic process.

If Osama bin Laden releases a pre-election tape like he did in 2004, don’t assume it will be to the Republicans’ benefit.

Amid all the talk about John McCain’s character, the press has missed the most important personal story in this election: Obama’s steady, mature, and thoughtful approach to politics appeals to voters.

Conservatives realize that a successful Obama presidency could remake American politics. If Obama wins the election, they will try to destroy his presidency with lies, just as they sought to do to Bill Clinton.

Don’t expect everything to go smoothly on Election Day. Make no mistake: The problems that existed in 2000 and 2004 haven’t gone away. There could be millions of Americans who will be prevented from exercising their franchise on Nov. 4.

The Republicans’ split over the bailout bill is the latest example of the party’s internal divisions. Unless the GOP figures out what it stands for, it’s headed for civil war and electoral disaster.