Vote Today. It Matters.

Perhaps it has become cliche to say that this is the most important election of our lifetimes. But we do face unprecedented challenges on multiple fronts. At similarly challenging times in our history we have risen together, in a collective and united voice, and brought about the change that was so desperately needed. Our decision on November 4th not only gives us the opportunity to begin to right some of the wrongs of the past eight years, but more importantly, put us back on the path of peace and prosperity we so desperately need.

I voted in a state that is most certainly not a swing state, and the lines were the longest I’ve ever seen. There is zero chance this state will do anything but go the way it has been predicated, but the turnout is still going to be massive. That is just amazing.

This next president will receive a poisoned chalice - the financial crisis facing our country is only beginning. Now begins the long road the recovery. And that road is difficult and uncertain.

Take a look at our national debt:

Source: Zfacts

We are not far removed from a debt to GDP ratio that has crippled so many developing countries (Argentina, for example). In the last month alone, look at what has happened:

Source: Perot Charts

Perot’s excellent blog continues:

Between September and October 2008, the Total U.S. National Debt increased by nearly one trillion dollars, or about 10% of the outstanding debt. Most of this increase is due to public borrowing to finance the Wall Street Bailout plan. The additional borrowing on top of the mandatory increases in programs such as Social Security (which will increase payout by 5.8% in January of 2009) represents a significant loss in financial flexibility which makes the problem of persistent deficit spending even more difficult to solve.

This is what our next President will face. It certainly won’t be easy. But it has never been more critical.