[omgwtf]

As always, good analysis, Mr. K.

However, I think the question of whether it would have passed anyway obscures the larger and more troubling issue. The way this was passed denied us, as Americans, due process in determining the laws that govern us. There was no opportunity to vote or even debate the issue. It doesn't matter that it would have probably passed anyway; this law was passed in a manner that effectively bypassed our representative form of government. The fact that this was even possible should terrify every American, regardless of how they feel about the law.

Would it be OK to cancel the elections in the districts where one candidate has an insurmountable lead? Of course not, because the process of debating the issues and voting is more important than the outcome of the vote.

Losing our ability to play poker online (if that's what ultimately happens) pales in comparison to this abuse of power. If virtually any law can be passed by one person without vote or debate, isn't that a dictatorship? (I know I overstate it, but this law did cross that line.)