So here's what we have to ask ourselves over these next few days, before anyone casts a ballot: Are we going to turn around and go back to the same policies that got us into that hole in the first place?

WHITEHOUSE: Remarks by the First Lady at a Campaign Event

He said that while he has had "very good contact over these last few days" with the Algerian authorities, he said he was "disappointed not to be informed of the assault in advance and we do want to help in any way we can with technical help and assistance".

BBC: Algeria hostage crisis: 'About 10 Britons' remain captive

Over the past few days, echoes of these stories have come together.

ECONOMIST: X marks the spot

But this would be a good way in these last few days just to push to make sure -- because you look over in those bins and you just sort of think, you know, the little kids, great, but, you know, if you're 11, you're still waiting for Santa, and you still want to make sure that they have something in the stocking.

WHITEHOUSE: The First Lady Delivers Toys for Tots