Keith Watanabe * NET 2.0

conditions in the stock market improved after the Democrats won the House, most of the governerships and the closing of the senate as well as Rumfield's almost immediate resignation. unlike the past two years where, going in, the Republicans were ahead in the game, this year's election had a lot of fiery that Wallstreet, like a crap's game in Vegas, was betting on. And they're still betting on the improved conditions. But i think this statement is one that will come true for the next few years. Before the focus would've been on military and oil stocks, but i believe Wallstreet's reaction is that consumers long term will benefit with a better economy in the next few years. So the sentiment is more out of relief since this current government reign will most definitely focus on the economy. There is mention of a recession, but I think that it'll be inevitable. The biggest thing here would be for the government to fess up and mention this straight out. the war has taken its toll on the economy so naturally taxes will be focused on to improve on programs that were halted like education and infrastructure. the good news is that more than likely their will be more jobs in these areas and that our roads and schools should see a modest improvement, at least in terms of state. i'd personally like to see a decrease in the price of oil/gas. certainly, it won't be at the levels of pre-911, but at least it can be reasonable (even $1.50/gallon is far better than $3/gallon). i think the executives of these oil companies should take the burden of taxes and an increase on capital gains tax on stock should be sought. that would hurt my mutual funds in the short term, but if someone is going to pay, let it be the rich man.