Stalemate for both parties

Former Times columnist, Frank Rich, and Adam Moss have a conversation about OWS and related issues at New York Magazine.  An excerpt:

Moss:  ... In your essay, you say, convincingly, that the class war won’t resolve in 2012 — the opponents will likely be two candidates of the elite facing off. But short of resolution, how do you imagine the “class war” will play out electorally? Is it ultimately to the benefit of Democrats or Republicans — or do all incumbents just get washed away, regardless of party?

Rich:  I wouldn't want to be an incumbent in either party (except, of course, in all those gerrymandered House districts — part of our democracy's problem). I am wary of predictions, but my guess is that there will be a political stalemate until one of the following: an unexpected speedy recovery on the jobs and housing fronts; an external existential threat to the country (see Depression and WWII); the emergence of a reformist populist leader with enormous public support. All unlikely at least in the near future; we may stew in our anger and this listless economy for quite some time.

Comments

[swarovski uk]

to the benefit of Democrats or Republicans — or do all incumbents just get washed away, regardless of party?