I think Josh Marshall and Nate Silver each have similar excellent and more detailed takes on the Republican race. In a nutshell, last night was perfect for Trump.  His vote share was a solid 35 percent, nearly 20 points greater than 2nd place Kasich, and better than factional past candidates such as Buchanan. But more importantly, there is little sign of consolidation in the establishment lane holding Christie, Rubio, Bush, and Kasich.  I think Christie will drop out soon.  Eventually, there will be further consolidation and I don’t have clue as to which of those three it might be.  (I take that no clue back, reading that list, my gut says it’s Bush, but who knows.) But in the meantime Trump and Cruz are well positioned to win pluralities and rack up delegates.  I think there is a real chance that there is no clear winner heading into the convention.  That said, Trump winning the nomination prior to summer is more likely than a contested convention.

On the Dem. side, I will just say that Clinton’s nomination is not inevitable.  I still expect her to prevail, but Sanders’ strength with voters under 45 is impressive.  I will write more later, bringing in some thoughts from Mr. Center Left, Sr. (my father who does not share my first name).