If Arafat Dies Before Nov. 2, will that have an effect?

[liberalpragmatist]

Any effect would probably be undetectable in polls, but could it hurt Kerry in Florida? Jewish voters, maybe a few feeling that Bush has successfully marginalized Arafat? I know, the logic is torturous.

Here's hoping the guy hangs on until at least Nov. 3 - I don't want any other variables popping up. Not that I would mourn Arafat (or, for that matter, Sharon). But please NOT BEFORE 11/2.

[efhmc]

1. Not going to happen but "no" is the answer.

[msongs]

2. YES the world will be a better place without him and

he will get all those virgins in paradise.....hope they are all wimmen LOLOLOLOL or he will get a big surprise.

Msongs
Riverside CA

[aquart]

3. It would mean a huge opportunity for the next President.

There is going to be a power shakeout, maybe a bloody one. The next President is going to have to give the winner an advantage that moves away from violence without making the guy seem in any way wimpy for doing it.

Or we could just let Israel go in and assassinate anyone who looks promising. Which is not working all that well.

I say, we let the Palestinians kill each other as long as they feel they need to. Then start negotiations with the survivors. Or we could intervene in the middle.