Some time ago a smart person corrected me when I identified America as a Democracy. He said USA is a Republic – or Democratic Republic. I did not understand the difference so looked it up and he was right. You could also call us Representative Democracy but I do not think that is true today with < 50% voter turnout...

2017 has been interesting for us Americans in many ways; especially with resurgence of the extreme far right. In most democratic countries hate speech and extreme fringe organization that promote violence are deemed unlawful. In our America, it is called freedom of speech. Whether we agree or disagree that is what it is.

There has been much reflection regarding President Obama's legacy in the final days of his presidency.  While the biased media celebrates his legacy and anoints him as the progressive savior of hope and change, the reality is that Mr. Obama was at best an under-achieving president, and possibly one of the worst ever.

In about 24 hours, Donald Trump will be Barack Obama's president, and his legacy will begin to vanish before his very eyes.

Business Leaders having amnesia, feeling despair, being seduced or just plain embracing hope…?

During the 2016 election cycle no major business organization (e.g. Business round table, National Association of Manufacturers, Chamber of Commerce) supported Donald Trump. Trump economic doctrine is likely to crash and burn... then why are business leaders who disdained him because of his toxic social values now are embracing him?

Could it be that they see reality and it is so dark that they embrace HOPE?!

It is sad that mean spirited prejudices based on religion, color, education, social stature or race have not really reduced over the course of human civilization. Even in the 21st Century, in a progressive country like USA, deep rooted prejudices are still strongly embedded.

Humility for humankind in the ecosystem would be a good start but sadly I do not believe that is possible. As a species we really are the worst.

Trump is good for Putin. Really, really good! While there is not much Putin can do for Trump, there is a lot Trump can do for Putin. Most of Putin likely asks are easy gives and have no obvious near term costs or consequences for Trump. And none of them require pesky congressional approval.

It isn't The Founders' fault that Hillary's campaign failed to turn out voters in Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Many of the people upset with the election results have been calling the electoral college outdated. Here is my defense of the process.

Hillary Clinton has been in public service (her choice) most of her professional life. Unless she viewed this year’s election for President as a gift from electorate there is still plenty to do...

While the Republican programs will create significant long term issues with the deficit, income inequality and social order, in the near term we are likely to see the continued economic success based on the Foundation that President Obama developed.

That is the ultimate irony that President-elect may succeed economically (whether foreign affairs or social issues sink him is a separate set of issues) because of what President Obama bequeathed him. 

"United" States of America is what we call ourselves. A land where people come from around the world and all walks of life for better opportunities, to be treated as equals & fairly, to raise their children in a country they are proud of... Is that what we just say anymore or do we actually believe and practice what we where supposed to stand for as a Nation?