The Most Important Election in United States History

Isn't it interesting that every Presidential election is the most important one? I am pretty sure that they were not saying this when Millard Fillmore was elected. No matter who you will decide to vote for, you have had plenty of opportunities to see where each of the candidates stand on the issues, and if they did not tell you, there are numerous websites (ontheissues.org) that will tell you where they stand.
One of the topics I have been thinking about lately is the electoral college. Yes, that truly American institution, leaves me a bit puzzled at times. With the rising partisan nature of states like Texas and California, what is the worth of a Democratic vote in Texas or a Republican vote in California? Because Kerry knows he has the Golden State wrapped up and barring a major miracle Bush will win Texas easily, they do not visit these states on campaign stops. If you are simply casting your vote for an elector from your state what is the true worth of your vote? In the beginning of the electoral college, the Founding Fathers (I love using that phrase) did not trust the knowledge of the American people to choose their President, but with the advent of widespread mass-media, everyone knows everything that comes out of the mouth of Teresa Heinz-Kerry, much less JFK2 or Dubya. American people are not completely politically savvy, but the average American knows much more than they did when the 12th Amendment was added to the constitution. What do you guys think about a reliance on the popular vote? Or maybe the choice of electors by congressional districts, so that a primarily Republican district in California or Democratic district in Texas can feel as though their voice is heard. Tell me what you think.
I am not normally a scary movie guy, but everyone has been talking about The Grudge. It seems as though this movie has the ability to reduce even the most manly-man to a quivering mass of jello. I don't know how scary a movie with "Buffy" can be, but apparently this one made certain Gamma Sigs (coughJeffMcCainandLukeReevescough) huddle together like scared schoolgirls. If a movie has that kind of effect it might just be worth checking out. Have a good one everybody.

Vaya Con Dios,

Justin