Nicolas Sarkozy's inauguration today may mark a turning point in French politics. The obstacles, however, are formidable. Following the second round of the presidential elections, violent pandemonium ensued across many French cities. Over a thousand cars have so far been set ablaze across France along with a French flag. Storefronts were smashed and walls were scrawled with "Sarko fascist" slogans and variations on the same theme. The rioting is now under control and in abeyance. Vandalism of such order cannot be excused away as adolescent exuberance; these pyromaniac barbarians, reveling in their destructive behavior, are making a statement: they were not satisfied with the election results and are not satisfied with anything. They wanted the Socialist candidate to win, even though Royal lost by a sizable margin. They want the elections results reversed so that she wins and if they don't get their way, more cars will be torched and anarchy will prevail. These...(Read Full Post)