More Europe or Less Europe in 2013?

Barack Obama survived his election, but bad economies have taken a toll on democratic leaders. Fifteen European leaders have lost their positions mostly due to the economy in the last two years. Does the political turmoil produce more Europe or less as a solution?

The survivor among all the turmoil and failed careers is Angela Merkel, the chief crises manager of Europe. She has successfully maneuvered between need for Southern European bailouts and her domestic constituents’ frugal attitudes and their desire to protect their standard of living.

Merkel’s lodestar appears to be for more, stronger Europe, even if in fits and starts.