Let's check out some political stories we found Below the Fold:
We Report You Decide
An early candidate for the most macabre political observation of the year goes to the Boston Globe Magazine for this line from a profile written last week by staff writer Charles Pierce:
"If she had lived, Mary Jo Kopechne would be 62 years old. Through his tireless work as a legislator, Edward Kennedy would have brought comfort to her in her old age."
Say What?
Former Stripper Barbara Scott wishes to lead Nevada's Democratic Party. Her press release states:
"I believe my unique political background, experiences and abilities provide me with the qualifications to best solidify and unite the Democratic Party in Nevada... "
Thus proving conclusively that political rhetoric can make even strippers boring.
A Way with Words
California Gov. Gray Davis stands accused of theft -- rhetorical theft from a Bill Clinton State of the Union Speech.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIPS)
WILLIAM J. CLINTON, FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: When presidents speak to Congress and the nation from this podium, typically they comment on the full range and challenges and opportunities that face the United States.
GOV. GRAY DAVIS, D-CALIF.: When governors speak from this podium, they ordinarily discuss a whole range of issues.
CLINTON: But this is not an ordinary time.
DAVIS: But these are not ordinary times.
CLINTON: For all of the many tasks that require our attention...
DAVIS: And we do have one overriding task before us.
CLINTON: I believe tonight one calls on us to focus, to unite and to act...
DAVIS: We must come together to create new jobs...
CLINTON: And that is our economy...
DAVIS: And get our economy back on track.
(END VIDEO CLIPS)
Jason Kinney, the governor's speech writer, told the Los Angeles Daily News the similarities were quote "accidental homage."