A statistical profile of the US on election day 2008; and freebies, galore!

Go get your treats today while you make your way to the polls: Starbucks is offering free coffee, Dunkin' Donuts has star-shaped cakes, and Ben & Jerry's will offer free scoops between 5 and 8 pm.

While you're enjoying some sweet stuff, ponder some important statistics on this Election Day 2008:

Toyota will probably be crowned the #1 automaker in the world this week, as GM slips to second place. GM's sales fell to their lowest level in 17 years. Last year, it outsold Toyota by a mere 3,000 cars.

The U.S. GDP fell.

Unemployment is expected to further rise in the U.S., and the recession feels real to working people and business.

The U.S. budget deficit is nearly one-half trillion dollars.

The U.S. Factory Index fell this week to a 26 year low.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger says that the California unemployment fund is nearly broke.

In health care, there are several statistics to think about today:

Women pay more for health insurance.

Hospital finance is a victim of a weak economy, hit by bond rates and investment losses.


The U.S. faces a primary care shortage.


S&P lowers their outlook for health insurers.


Only 6% of American families believe they will be able to handle future health care costs.


Health Populi's Hot Points: GO