We will soon know the outcome of the US presidential elections, with President Barack Obama and Republican rival Mitt Romney pushing in the final hours of the 17-month campaign marathon estimated to have cost almost $6 billion. Surveys showed Obama maintaining a very slight lead over Romney (1-3 points), with Frankenstorm Sandy most likely boosting Obama’s cause with majority saying they like the way the US president handled the disaster.
A report by the National Asian American Survey said Filipinos will most likely comprise the largest number of American-Asian voters, estimated at 700,000 according to the US Embassy. And while close to 50 percent identify themselves as politically independent, many are said to be leaning towards the Republican candidate – a clear shift from the 2008 elections where the Filipino-American votes went to the Democratic candidate.
A seasoned political observer however noted that an Obama win would be better for the Philippines since the current US administration has also trained its sight on global security issues, with no less than Secretary of State Hillary Clinton recognizing the important role of the international community – specifically their cooperation – in countering extremism. After all, the Obama administration’s “Asia pivot” with the major realignment of US forces from the Middle East to Asia has given a renewed sense of security to many countries in Asia (although they will not publicly admit this) who have become skittish about the perceived aggression of China.
Besides, Obama will no longer have to worry about reelection in 2016 – leaving him free to pursue global security issues. In contrast, a win by Romney would change the equation since the Republicans will have to play up to the American public, focusing on domestic issues since Romney – if he wins – will have his eyes set for reelection in 2016.
In any case, this is probably going to be one of the closest races ever, with analysts saying a tie could be possible. That’s because the winner will not be based on the number of popular votes, but on who will win the Electoral College votes. These votes are based on the number of representatives (Congressmen and Senators) allotted for each state, like California for instance which has 55, Florida with 29, North Carolina 15 and so on, with some states having as few as three Electoral College votes.
The magic number is 270, meaning the winner will have to chalk up at least 270 of the 538 Electoral College votes. But in case of a tie – which is unlikely but not an impossibility – the House will have to choose the president, while the Senate can pick the vice president. Can you just imagine the kind of scenario with a Republican president and a Democratic vice president – or vice versa? Or where the Democratic presidential and vice presidential candidates win but Congress will be controlled by the Republicans? The US will be in for one of the most divided political situations ever in its history.
Ricky Razon flying high
“Ports King” Enrique Razon Jr. seems to be flying high with his company’s stocks starting to soar, coupled by ICTSI’s acquisition of a ports operation business in Pakistan plus the launch of his $1-billion Solaire Casino and Resorts project by Bloomberry Resorts Corp. Solaire is touted to be the most state-of-the-art, most opulent resort complex in the country, rivaling – if not better than – those in Macau, Las Vegas and Singapore.
Solaire’s opening has been slated for March 2013 with the big names in the casino world expected to fly in for the opening. Ricky has already started the wheels rolling by hiring only the best of the best for the hotel and casino operations. Two job fairs have already been conducted in the last few months, with an estimated 4,600 jobs to be created – much to the appreciation of the local governments of Pasay and Parañaque. Solaire will definitely bring the idea of entertainment to unprecedented levels, with an anticipated influx of high rollers who will find the royal treatment much to their approval, with airlifts for the high flying gamers.
Ricky tried to literally fly high himself on one vacation trip when he went water ski flying. Unfortunately, the speedboat pulled him too quickly – resulting in his shoulder being accidentally fractured. Ricky’s shoulder will have to remain in a cast for the next couple of months – prompting a business associate to remark that the business tycoon is better off staying on the ground – like the way he runs his empire – always grounded. “He should stick to golf,” a business associate pointed out. Ricky Razon is an “A” golfer with a single digit handicap.
Canadian PM to visit Philippines
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper will be in Manila over the weekend following his visit to India. The Canadian leader will be accompanied by Fil-Canadian senator Tobias Enverga and Minister of International Trade Ed Fast. The visit has a major significance since the number of Filipino-Canadians is now currently estimated at 750,000, with Filipinos now comprising the highest number of immigrants from Asia. In fact, a Winnipeg Parliament official recognized the crucial role Filipinos play in filling jobs in Canada, describing them as an important force in Canadian industries.
Canadian Ambassador Chris Thornley expressed excitement about the visit, noting the growth and diversity in Canadian-Philippines relations. Prime Minister Harper will be honored with a state luncheon by President Noy Aquino this Saturday at Malacañang Palace. Both leaders will be discussing cooperation on security and other regional issues including potential business opportunities for both countries as part of the agenda.
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Email: spybits08@yahoo.com.