Americans who grew up during the Cold War against the Soviet Union will be shocked to learn that the old toxicity of the words socialism and communism are gone now. Even candidates for judge in Texas are running as self-described socialists. It’s all a reflection of the polls. It turns out that now the only demographic left that continues to believe that capitalism is superior to either socialism or communism are Americans over 50 years of age. As the country continues to age and old people die, so will capitalism or at least support for it. Of course, when you look at the way Millennials live, you can’t really say it’s all that surprising.

In an alternative universe, there is a United States of America led by a president Donald Trump where people are actually focused on real issues that affect real people and there is a government and a news media that is focused on trying to find solutions to people’s actual problems. But we don’t live in that universe.

If there is really a significant difference between president Donald Trump and his predecessors, it’s not policy. Policies have remained basically the same. It’s really a question of style. Trump is crass, rude, and overtly racist. Yes, tone makes a difference. But does it really matter that much? Not to the rest of the world or to most Americans.

Democrats are certain that a “blue wave” election will sweep them into Congress this fall. After all, the Democratic base is extremely anxious to impeach President Trump and only a Democratic House of Representatives and a Democratic Senate could accomplish that. But this is more wishful thinking on the part of progressive and liberal voters. In fact, top Democratic leaders including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi have been clear about the fact that they have no intention whatsoever to impeach the president. Don’t be surprised if progressives and liberals are less than enthusiastic when it’s time to vote for president in 2020.

Even by the bellicose standards of the Bush Administration, John Bolton, Donald Trump’s selection to become the new National Security Advisor, was considered one hell of a scary guy. Even now, he is advocating for a preemptive nuclear strike against North Korea and he wants war against Iran. He may just convince the president to blow up the entire planet, but in the meantime he’s going to be good for at least one sector of the American economy.