I’m sorry, but I just don’t see how the United States bounces back from this one. The damage is just too profound, the political institutions are too rotted. Democracy isn’t a magic solution that makes things great. It’s an ugly set of compromises that constantly needs to be protected and supported. But the right has been happy to tear down those institutions and refuse any compromises.

And if the US turns into a second-rate basketcase, I’m seriously worried about the rest of the developed world. Can you imagine how emboldened Putin will be if Trump gets elected? There’s going to be a major push to turn every major power into a corrupt kleptocracy, and to erode democratic institutions. What a frickin’ mess.

(Sorry, feeling extra-negative at the moment … Sure, an Obama-like wave that crushes the right would be a wonderful antidote, but that’s not looking too likely anymore).