FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
A year from today, the U.S. will elect its next president, along with a bunch of representatives, senators and governors. A lot can happen between now and then.
Politically we're just getting warmed up. Expect more open warfare among the Republican candidates for the White House once the primaries and caucuses start in January.
And, you never know... Herman Cain may not be the only candidate with a potential skeleton in his closet. Don't forget about those infamous October surprises.
But there's a whole lot more than politics at stake here... starting with the economy.
As the European economy sputters on fears of a Greek bailout not happening, remember we're all in this together. If Europe falls off a cliff, the U.S. could be quick to follow. Expect more dramatic swings in the stock market - and with it the retirement and college hopes of millions of Americans.
Also on the economic front: Unemployment remains above 9 percent... and the CBO expects it to stay there through the end of 2012. Very bad news for President Obama.
What about our skyrocketing national debt and deficits? Washington is waiting to hear the results from the debt super committee in the coming weeks. But it doesn't matter what they do. We will be deeper in debt a year from now than we are now.
Suddenly we're running short of wars. President Obama says all U.S. troops will be out of Iraq by the end of this year. But as that drawdown occurs, the U.S. is reportedly planning to build up its forces in other Persian gulf countries - like Kuwait. Who knows what that could bring.
And, there's Occupy Wall Street. Will the movement fade away with the first winter chill, or will it grow and spread? And to what end? If it has any staying power, voter discontent with income inequality and corporate greed might be a real factor when America votes in 2012.
Here's my question to you: The 2012 election is a year away from today. The 2012 election is a year from today. Where will we be in a year?
Tune in to "The Situation Room" at 5 p.m. ET to see if Jack reads your answer on the air.
And we'd love to know where you're writing from, so please include your city and state with your comment.