Now that the 2000 and 2002 elections have passed, and the 2004 presidential election campaign is officially underway, it is abundantly clear that nothing has changed. The two-party system continues to erode into a single-party system with Democrat and Republican factions. The "safe seat" incumbency factor is even more firmly entrenched. Special-interest campaign financing flows heavier than ever. Voter participation continues to decline. And the people are left holding the social, political, economic and taxable bags.

Even though the United States of America is still the best country on earth, in terms of security, freedom, strength and prosperity -- with seemingly unlimited potential -- these are the times that require the most serious reality checks. Indeed, now that our unique culture has been fully included in the grip of world terrorism, it's time to re-examine and defend ourselves in very different terms.

We need to rise above the rhetorical fog. We need to inform ourselves and re-evaluate the competition for the American mind. We need to ensure real, objective education for our children with a productive core curriculum that includes American history and civics. And surely, we must revisit the idea of government to increase participation in democracy, for our future, for the good of our country and for our survival.

DDC