Re: Reminders not needed-- Probably not. In other countries, the 2008 election was considered historic and well, remember that nobel peace prize? Since then, the historic shine has worn off. Also, the exodus out of the US has picked up over the past few years. I still have some expat friends and family here but most have left for good. America is ... a big ball of problems that is best walked away from. (even better when the company that offers to transfer you out pays the difference on all of the 'under water' value on your house.)

Direct democracy is such a problematic idea. It sounds good but, in practice, it creates all sorts of problems. I turned in last year's ballot with a couple of slots blank because I just couldn't make heads or tails of it. I felt bad turning in a partly completed ballot but ... erg. erg. erg. *headdesk*