Hard to tell. Although both candidates expressed themselves quite admirably, neither the president nor his opponent managed to answer all the questions regarding the big issues confronting Americans in election year 2004.

For example, while each candidate had his own ideas regarding Iraq, the proliferation of nuclear weapons and America’s role in world affairs, neither President Bush or Senator Kerry addressed concerns regarding rising ticket prices, the declining number of stadium shows in 2004, or for that matter, the rumors that Metallica might not add more shows to its schedule before year’s end, thus possibly alienating the heavy metal vote as well as the leather-and-chains vote that was so crucial in 2000.

Furthermore, neither candidate mentioned the Eagles’ Pacific Rim tour, and whether or not it would influence America’s participation in the Kyoto Protocol, the controversial treaty limiting flatulent promoter emissions. This, as well as a failure to speculate upon Paul McCartney’s upcoming acoustic set at the Bridge School Benefit, left many observers shaking their heads in wonder as to whether or not the president or Senator Kerry has a grasp on current concert issues.

However, it’s not like we haven’t seen this before. Although the campaign debates of 1992 made it clear as to then-candidate Bill Clinton’s position regarding a Fleetwood Mac reunion, history is rife with presidential candidates offering incomplete, if not incoherent concert policies. Just as in 1984 when Reagan failed to note the future rise of popularity for the Backstreet Boys, neither President Bush nor his challenger addressed the growing public fondness for new bands such as The Darkness or the demand for more Pixies shows, leading many to speculate on the lack of foresight in planning a cohesive concert policy.

But what did the candidates talk about? Easier to mention what they left out. Whether it was in regards to Sting, Green Day or Neil Diamond, neither candidate adequately addressed all issues, such as adequate parking, reasonable concession prices and proper stage monitors for support acts. In short, while both candidates expressed optimism about America’s future, neither President Bush nor Senator Kerry offered any concrete solutions when it comes to this country’s concert future.

Conclusion? While both candidates expressed their respective plans regarding Iraq, the economy and the ever-rising price of oil, neither candidate addressed current issues such as an all-encompassing concert health care program guaranteed to provide medical coverage for citizens at all concerts. Although President Bush reemphasized one talking point from his 2000 campaign, namely ticket service charge cuts for those with an annual income of $200,000 or more, neither the president or his challenger addressed the more controversial issues, such as the importation of cheaper concert tickets from Canada, or adequate Social Security safeguards so that Baby Boomers will be able to purchase tickets for Phil Collins, Yanni and Cher well into their golden years. Because of these inconsistencies, this Web site cannot endorse either candidate at this time. However, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all Americans to vote early and vote often.

Coming up later this week. How will Ralph Nader’s third-party candidacy affect the prices for Bette Midler tickets in the Red States? Furthermore, how are the Blue States responding to the Ministry tour, and what if anything is the relationship between the announcement of the upcoming Marilyn Manson tour and oil reaching $50 per barrel? Stay tuned.