We just left the Democratic headquarters an hour ago. Strickland was not there yet. The place was packed. We were glued to the tv and distressed by the Allard/Strickland numbers. We left before the race was called. Now home in front of the tv and computer, Fox just called the senate race for Allard. We're very sorry, we really think Strickland would make a far better Senator.

The only thing left to do now is begin the countdown to 2004. The Dems need to move back to the left and away from the moderate center. We need to stand for something, and for the past few years, there has been too little distinction between the democrats and republicans. Democrats weren't meant to be so centrist and mainstream, and unless they go back to their roots, we risk becoming a one party nation.

There's a part for us all to play here. Let's not nominate moderate democrats in 2004. Let's give the voting public a true choice. Let's go back to being leftists.