  We discuss properties of QCD with variable and large $N_c$, taking into
account electroweak interactions; i.e., we analyze the generalization of the
standard model based on the gauge group $G={\rm SU}(N_c) \times {\rm SU(2)}_L
\times {\rm U(1)}_Y$. General classes of solutions to anomaly constraints are
given, and it is shown that these allow a $T_3 = \pm 1/2$ quark or $T_3=-1/2$
lepton rather than the neutrino as an electrically neutral fermion. The issue
of grand unification is addressed, and it is shown that $G$ cannot be embedded
in the usual way in a simple SO($N$) or SU($N$) gauge group unless $N_c=3$. The
ratio of strengths of QCD and electroweak interactions is discussed.
