2012 Predictions Check-in

If you recall, my predictions for 2012, made in December 2011, were as follows - you can get the reasoning behind each one at the original diary. They are:

1. Barack Obama will be re-elected to a second term as President.
2. John Boehner will be ousted as Speaker of the House.
3. Democrats will just barely hold on to the US Senate
4. The US unemployment rate will dip below 8%.
5. The European Union will hold on .. barely.
6. Inflation will remain below 10%.
7. Protest movements in the US, Russia, Europe and MENA will accelerate.
8. The US will substantially reduce its troop presence in Afghanistan.
9. Oregon will win the Rose Bowl.

So, where are we at? Follow me past the orange noodle for my thoughts.