How will Gadhafi's demise affect the 2012 race?

[J. J.]

First, Obama's policy was correct.  He basically acted in support of NATO which acted in support of the rebels.

Politically, because that was a supportive policy, he gets very little credit for it, domestically.

Second, it is not over.  Qaddafi and his sons are still out there with armed supporters.  The fighting continues.  There is a reasonable chance of guerrilla war. 

There is also the possibility of tribal war, with the participants all very well armed.  Think Mogadishu.

Unless Obama is stupid enough to send in combatant forces, it will not effect him directly.  However, the instability it presents an economic problem for Europe, which doesn't need any more economic problems.  The flow of oil may be further impaired.  That could further damage the world economy, and damage Obama, very indirectly.

The alternative was letting Qaddafi commit genocide in Benghazi, so ultimately it was a good decision.  The American voter, however, probably won't see the nuances.