"As far as the big picture, I'd have to go with the market goin in a down direction since it seems to have reached maximum highs a number of times without another big leg up."

That's exactly what my take would be, except for one thing. The Fed always supports the current administration. If rates are to rise soon, it will not be without the Fed having evidence of the economy being strong enough to endure that without a hiccup, though I suspect a sharp and very short downward move, before the broader market moves on to new highs.

After the election? ...can't guess for now.