Thanks for the kind words, Graham. I agree with many of your observations, particularly that it was an upset, but I want to focus a bit on where I disagree.

• I'm not personally convinced that "people in power" is a homogeneous in-group acting in concert. Individuals tend to have their own agendas. I think there are real power struggles at all levels. I agree that this wasn't an accident, but I disagree with the premise in which the question of whether or not it was an accident is framed. I think the premise here presupposes the omnipotence of some secret cabal. You're entitled to your own analysis, but I think this view would imply a sort of determinism to which resistance would appear futile. My concern is that this would be a self-fulfilling prophecy. Adaptation to unforeseen circumstances is something no one has a monopoly on.

• To further touch on WikiLeaks and the CFR, there were CFR members who had emailed Podesta EXTREMELY CONCERNED over Trump. Perhaps this is all elaborate theater (a possibility which should never be ruled out), but I remain unconvinced that this is the Machiavellian strategy of a single concerted group of individuals. It's not uncommon for people who were once friends to find themselves at odds.

• Regarding the reneging on Obamacare: It looks like this rumor originated with some of the same media outlets which were discredited by Wikileaks. He may very well renege, but he hasn't yet. His statements were something to the effect of, "Obamacare will be repealed, replaced or amended. As a show of respect, I told President Obama that I'd take a look at his suggestions, and that's what I'll do."

• Regarding his comments about Hillary Clinton during his first speech after getting elected: you mentioned JFK. He might just be worried about getting his head blown off. Or he might be hiding his hand from her and letting her get comfortable. He might totally renege, but we should make sure we have evidence before buying into the claims of the news outlets who nearly just lied Clinton into power (again).

• Regarding change: a government debt default is extremely likely in the next four years. Things would have changed no matter who got elected. Having seen what happened to Greece, I know for a fact that having overt leftists in control for fake austerity measures is a bad idea.

Good article though, man. I look forward to seeing how this all unwinds.