It was a hard American winter A tough time for Americans. But out there, beneath the ice, something big was stirring. An awakening of the unruly animal, American democracy. This presidential election isn't like other elections. Those of us who have lived here for decades felt the first tremors of a political earthquake. It's not only a war gone bad and an economy on the skids, but a nationwide loss of faith in government that has gnawed at the root of the republic since the dismal aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. I promise you, I will lead America in the 21st century and make you proud. I will restore your trust and confidence in government. That's what their votes are saying.' Help us to believe in the American future again. Forty-four. Forty-five. Forty-six. Forty-seven. In Iowa, I saw citizens going to the polls in double the numbers of the last election.