Question about the Olympics and the election

[Chili]

I'll never forget the negative press that American Olympians received from the Australian media during the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. It pissed me off. So I was wondering, with our reputation so damaged around the world, what effect, if any, will anti-American sentiment in Athens have on the election? I know it won't be huge, unless something catastrophic happens (God forbid). Will Americans being booed or treated poorly by the press or by spectators make a swing voter, or even a loyal Republican, think on the devastating effect Bush's foreign policies and the war have had on our world standing? Especially if they've been in denial. Or would it make them defensive and more determined to support Bush? Or will it have no effect at all?

And a corollary to that: I certainly hope that the athletes will be well-protected over there? I heard / read somewhere that they have been, or will be, instructed to tone down the patriotic / nationalist theme that we've always shown at the games. And what effect will any anti-Bush statements made by athletes have?

I'm praying for an uneventful Games, but I do fear for the safety of the athletes.

[rwheeler31]

1. Bush supporters do not care what others think.

Americans are worried but not about the games.

[tedoll78]

2. I wonder about these things also.

I suppose that maybe 1/4% of voters might see/hear the booing and convert that into a vote for Kerry. Who knows? In a close election where Howard Stern of F9/11 might make a difference, this could just add to our victory formula.

Let's just hope things are safe over there..