How would things be different if Dole had won in 1996?

[leyton]

Now, before you guys tear into me, know that I was not really paying attention to politics until 2001 (and specifically the day that Jim Jeffords switched parties).

So I wonder what would have happened if Dole had somehow defeated Clinton in 1996. Obviously, we would have had a Republican for four, maybe eight years, although it seems to me he was kind of a weak politician, like the first Bush. I can't see the guy winning a second term. And there probably would have been the... um... mediocre policies that come with GOP Presidents. No balanced budget, that's for sure.

And on the other hand... we would not have George W. Bush in office. The nomination would not have been open in 2000, and though we might have Dole or a Democrat, we would not have the crap that goes on with the current President. (I am of the persuasion that while I don't care for Republican politics, George W. Bush takes it to a new level.)

What do you think? If you had the opportunity, would you go back, change the results of 1996, perhaps if you were guaranteed that a Democrat would be elected in 2000?

[bluestateguy]

1. Dole would have tested out the Viagra on Monica

Sorry, I just couldn't resist that.

[AndyTiedye]

2. The PNAC Wars Would Have Started Four Years Earlier

[Hippo_Tron]

3. I'm not 100% sure about that...

Bob Dole has some integrity, unlike chimp. The PNACers are pretty extreme EVEN for the Republican party. Unfortunately, most of the country doesn't understand this and thinks that Bush's policies are moderate.