2024 Election Year in the UK and USA – Same old, same old….

Much the same whoever gets in!

With a UK General Election and a US Presidential Election due this year, – and apparently elections also for a huge portion of the free world -I thought I would set the scene, so we can look back later in the year at my ramblings.

You all recognise by now that my political bent has a blue tint, not surpassingly, as all of you, will – most likely – with time, realise that the only way to achieve a sound economy and society, is by good old-fashioned capitalism. I know there are lots of dissenters, but trust me on this one.

With both countries now expecting to go to the polls later this year – which is unusual – it seemed reasonable for me to put forward some predictions. However before that I will set the usual political scenario.

As with most young people, my initial view of politics lent me towards a slightly redder perspective.

Not surprising really, as impressionable youngsters form idealistic views, based upon their peers, and often those educating them – teachers – who should know better.

Of course, surely socialism or possibly, more extremely communism, must be the right way for all balanced and well-meaning societies? Its ideals appear on the whole to be reasonable and sound:-

a political and economic theory of social organization which advocates that the means of production, distribution, and exchange should be owned or regulated by the community as a whole.

However, the real world is not like that. The major issue is that, as succinctly put by MT,

“The trouble with socialism is that eventually you run out of other people’s money”

A comment I just wish I had thought of, it just gets to the hub of the issue.

Sadly, the young do not necessarily understand this, and often will only recognise the reality as they mature, and realise the truth of the matter.

Unfortunately, their idealistic views, and inability to understand the true benefits of capitalism/entrepreneurship, often leads to a Socialist (Labour/Democrat) Government by default.

Historically the Tories/Republicans in power, get cocky – again – even though they are generally the ones that can truly run the country. They somehow give the young, or those with short memories, or the inability to understand life, the opportunity to think socialism works, – or that anything is better than a Conservative/Republican government, and in comes Labour/Democrats to balls up the whole economy – with wild spending plans that can’t be afforded.

With the country, and economy in the doldrums – with possible recession, – another election becomes due, and the Tories/Republicans are re-elected to sort out the mess. They eventually, after many years of austerity (or sensible moderate spending advocated by all families in moments of crisis) bring the economy and country back into safe territory. Which leads them once again (to get cocky) allowing the young – knowing no better – to vote in a well-meaning, but inappropriate socialist government. Déjà vu.

The cycle of UK/USA politics is established, and is likely to remain.

USA: Old Doddery Man JB (81), or Vindictive – slightly less old – DT (77).

I’m not sure I have seen such a poor choice for the USA or the world, other than the last election. It is possibly again the lesser of two evils. A truly divided electorate.

I find it difficult to understand why these old men should have a desire to still be at work – let alone rule the world’s greatest super power. Leave it to a man, – or woman – who are fitter, stronger and more able to do the job. Just retire gracefully.

Perhaps the Supreme Court, – or some other court – may just scupper DT’s plans, but time will tell.

If so just watch out for Nikky Haley.

No matter what, it will be a close run thing – and we know what that means.

Prediction: The world is potentially worse off – whoever wins.

UK: Conservative (RS), or Labour (SKS)

Believe it or not, we are electing a Government, not a PM or President, but it will feel like it is down to which of the party leaders the electorate trusts more, – or trusts less……

The Conservatives are on the back foot. 13 years in power, and going through leaders like they are going out of fashion. Plus the world is going through tough times – Ukraine war, Gaza, Energy crisis with Economic and Climate issues –  that affects every country, not just the UK. But don’t let the truth get in the way of your political doctrine

Labour having finally ditched JC, now believe that by just not being Tory, is enough to get them power – and it just might.

A large majority of the electorate are not that bothered either way, as life goes on regardless of the useless politicians. However the Conservative faithful will be out for a GE, so the likely hood is that it will be a close run thing – despite what the media pundits and politicians think or believe.

Prediction: Hung Parliament. With Labour possibly the largest party. Look forward to a coalition government – you may not remember the last one – but it is pretty dire.

When all said and done, despite MP’s huffing and puffing, the great British public get on with things regardless of what goes on in Westminster.

Nonetheless we are in for a long 12 months of endless MP’s and political reports going on about a GE, which is likely to be in the Autumn – or is it. Don’t be surprised if RS calls a snap May election, just as I go on holiday.