Republican gubernatorial candidate Meg Whitman, having weathered a primary against one of the more dogmatic opponents in recent years, appears to be headed for either a landslide victory or a landslide defeat, with little margin for error in between.

Based on several early polls in July, our nation remains polarized over President Obama, frustrated with Congressional performance, and pessimistic about the future. 

Is Barbara Boxer a shoe-in for re-election to the Senate in the fall, or is she in real trouble with California voters?   Her campaign has been moved from the “sure bet” to “iffy” by some important political pundits. 

In a speech touting the need for immigration reform, President Obama offered more of the same polarizing rhetoric typical of the contemporary Washington environment.  Ultimately, he blames Republicans if the reform effort fails, even though some Democrats aren't on board. 

“Whiskey is for drinking, water is for fighting over” – Mark Twain 

Seasoned observers of California’s political system are understandably hesitant to write off Barbara Boxer. Being one of the most entrenched and well-known politicians in Washington, Boxer is a formidable opponent, and the GOP has been unable to find someone to tackle her thus far.

California’s November 2 election is going to receive national attention.  Not just because of two high-profile races at the top of the Republican and Democratic tickets – Governor and U.S. Senate – but because of marijuana. 

In June, 102 NATO soldiers were killed in Afghanistan, setting a new monthly record since the war began in 2001.  58 U.S. troops were killed, which nearly tied last year's October record of 59.