It was a portent of the waning power of the North.

ECONOMIST: A northern holy grail

As CNN's Candy Crowley pointed out Monday in an analysis: If Walker sidesteps a recall, it would speak to conservative's grassroots power, the waning power of unions -- which typically ally with Democrats -- and could further Romney's efforts in the state.

CNN: What's at stake in Wisconsin?

The new boss has his work cut out: IG Metall remains deeply divided and its power is waning, with membership continuing to fall.

ECONOMIST: Reviving the sick men of Europe | The

After nearly 18 years in office, Mr Pujol's power is waning.

ECONOMIST: Spain and the Catalans

Even so, the family's power may finally be waning.

ECONOMIST: A victory for semi-feudalism

As for Mr Obama, it is hard to imagine an incoming president better placed to reach over the heads of Hamas's leaders and restore the waning belief of Palestinians in the power of diplomacy.

ECONOMIST: Israel and the Palestinians