Watching the primary results, I am struck once again by how screwed up our political process has become.  Consider this; California is the most important state in the United States.  We have the most people, some of the biggest cities, some of the most important and innovative industries.  We are often the source of new trends in any field, from business to entertainment to education to politics.  Yet, California is not involved in choosing our next President.  Already we can see it will be Obama vs McCain, and California has had virtually no influence on this.  In the fall, the election will be over before California's votes are counted.  The candidates will ignore California all summer, knowing this.  How screwed up is that?

Not to mention, our governor, who would likely be a serious contender for the nomination in either party, is not even eligible to run.  How screwed up is that?

What should be done?  First, all the primaries should take place at the same time.  Second, the electoral college is an anachronism that should be eliminated; the President should be chosen by direct voting.  That would fix everything.  Well, maybe not everything but it would help.  Oh, and immigrants who have been U.S. citizens and residents for twenty years should be able to run for President.