i would like to propose that the next american election be devoted to a contest regarding the extent of public displays of affection for america. it should be televised, in prime time. this contest should replace the debates (which have frankly been useless for years, anyways). there should be a call-in or web vote to determine the winner, who will be immediately inaugurated, afterwards, to the tune of the miss america pageant music.

"folks, it seems like bob dole is giving the statue of liberty a handjob. that's going to be tough to beat."

listen....

there was an aircraft carrier on it's way to dock in sevastopol. the americans denied it, of course. "routine patrols". but, it was sailing in that direction.

if you consider the ramifications of a nato aircraft carrier docking in sevastopol, you understand why putin actually prevented (or at least postponed) a major war from breaking out.

it's one of those "minor details" that most people will never really be aware of, but was the dominant factor in the action.

so, you ask "what else could they have done?", but you miss the context.

well, he's a douche bag, sure. but he's not acting in any kind of a professional capacity, other than perhaps behaving in character. he's under no obligation at this point to not be a douche bag. that puts her at a disadvantage in the encounter, but she initiated the encounter...