Election Day in Israel

It's a national holiday... a major element in the hoopla that sustains the illusion that democracy offers a meaningful choice.

The mood of the Israeli public is decidedly hawkish. So Netanyahu will probably win another term as Prime Minister. The only difference that is likely to make is in the tenor of the rhetoric from Government. Expect more saber-rattling.

As to anything else - ethics, for example - Olmert did not set a high bar, but Netanyahu has shown no ability to surmount the self-seeking. Expect more scandals.