Cape Politics

Lights Out, George.

Just when you think that nothing George W. Bush can do will surprise (read disgust) you, he comes up with something new.

After last night's stunning conclusion to the historic election of Barack H. Obama, spontaneous celebration broke out in many places in the country. One of those celebrations that spilled into the streets took place in Washington, DC.  It was reported that thousands of jubilant residents of NW Washington left their homes shortly after Senator Obama was declared the victor and started walking to the White House.  Thousands more joined them there after Senator Obama concluded his acceptance speech.

Secret Service details at the White House said that they had never seen anything like it. Nor were they prepared for it. But fortunately the people were there to celebrate the the victory and not to cause mischief. 

The president who has been MIA for all these last weeks, lest he be blamed for John McCain's fortunes, did what only he would do in this instance. He turned out the lights at the White House. 

Shortly after midnight, the celebration that had been taking place in the ambient light of the White House faded to dark, while figures continued dancing in the shadows.

Did it not occur to the President that this was a special moment in our history and that this was a truly genuine outpouring of emotion by a beleagured populace?  Had he truly considered himself the man of the people should he not have joined them? Maybe from inside the fence surrounding the White House, but why not seize the moment to congratulate the President-elect from the front lawn of the White House?

Instead,  this President turned out the porch lights and went to bed.