Rob, you're on the money with most of the above.

I'm not in full agreement with the "need for a two party system" because I see nothing wrong with the "several party system." The Constitution does not limit the number of political parties, and the last election had 13 on the ballot. Alliances and coalitions among the smaller parties to get their messages and wants are historic, and they show more honor and commitment to their principles than the two "major" parties.

Thanks Steve- I would love to see a multi-party sytem, because with a 2 party system everything is either/or with no option for power if you are in the "or" party. Occasionally we get a dynamic third-party person, but even then, they take away from the majority party and skew results. Clinton would not have won without Ross Perot, & W. would not have won without Nader in the race. How couldl we ever switch to a parliamentary system while still having a strong executive? It would require a total rewite of the Constitution. I for one would be terrified of that!

Coalitions would more greatly reflect the diversity of opinions of this nation. As it happens now, the coalitions must be formed under a single party's tent. The Reps. did it in 2000, and the Dems. did it this election. The thing I fear (or actually enjoy seeing, if I were to be honest!) is that the radical Republicans have simply amputated entire portions of what should be, and have in the past been, Republican constituencies. Pro-choice but free-market. No thanks. Anti-war but conservative family values- no thanks. Moderately in favor of social spending for infrastructure or S.S. or Medicare, but pro-defense, no thanks.

There is this seeemingly self-destructive need for every Republican to be in lockstep with Grover Norquist or Tony Perkins, or you're not wanted to be a part of the GOP. Not so Grand anymore. At least in the Reagan coalitions, there was room for other views. I don't think Ronald Reagan of 1988 would be welcome in the GOP today, just as I see George Bush senior keeping his distance as well. These men were conservatives, but they were also tolerant in many ways that the fringe in control today will not stomach.

Forgot about heralding G.Gordon Liddy for writing about what good citizenship is today also!